This bill proposes the establishment of Chapter 43-17.5 of the North Dakota Century Code, creating a physician assistant licensure compact to improve access to medical services across participating states. The compact allows physician assistants to practice in multiple states through mutual recognition of their licenses while remaining under the jurisdiction of the state licensing board where the patient is located. Key responsibilities for participating states include licensing physician assistants, maintaining a data system for tracking licenses and adverse actions, and conducting criminal background checks. The bill also includes provisions for military families, allowing active duty personnel and their spouses to obtain a compact privilege based on an unrestricted license from a participating state.

Additionally, the bill outlines the formation of the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the compact's implementation and ensure compliance among states. The commission will consist of one delegate from each participating state and will have the authority to establish fees, maintain financial records, and conduct joint investigations. The bill also introduces legal protections for commission members against liability for actions taken in their official capacity, while ensuring that judicial proceedings occur in the jurisdiction of the commission's principal office. Furthermore, it details the process for handling defaults by participating states and the commission's authority to enforce compliance, including the ability to initiate legal action against defaulting states. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the licensure process for physician assistants while ensuring accountability and cooperation among states.