The bill proposes the adoption of the Physician Assistant (PA) Licensure Compact, which aims to improve access to medical services by allowing PAs licensed in one participating state to practice in other participating states through mutual recognition of licenses. It establishes a regulatory framework that includes provisions for criminal background checks, the creation of a PA Licensure Compact Commission to oversee implementation, and the retention of state authority to impose adverse actions against PAs. Key definitions are provided to clarify the rights and responsibilities of PAs, and the bill outlines the requirements for states to participate, including mechanisms for investigating complaints and ensuring compliance with the laws of the remote state where PAs practice.

Additionally, the bill details the powers and responsibilities of the commission, including the authority to bring legal actions, maintain insurance, and manage finances. It emphasizes public participation in the rulemaking process, mandating that all hearings be recorded and that comments received must be considered before finalizing rules. The bill also introduces provisions for emergency rule adoption and outlines oversight, dispute resolution, and enforcement mechanisms for the compact. Notably, it amends the licensing criteria for PAs to require fingerprint submissions for criminal background checks and allows for similar checks during license renewals.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 37-20-402
HB0183_1(1): 37-20-402
HB0183_1(2): 37-20-402
HB0183_1(3): 37-20-402
HB0183_1(4): 37-20-402
HB0183_1: 37-20-402