The proposed bill seeks to establish Chapter 43-44.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, creating the Dietitian Licensure Compact to facilitate the interstate practice of dietetics. This compact aims to enhance public access to dietetic services while maintaining state regulatory authority to ensure public health and safety. It allows licensed dietitians to practice across member states without obtaining multiple licenses, thereby reducing administrative burdens and supporting military families during relocations. The bill outlines the requirements for states to join the compact, including the need for proper licensing and complaint investigation mechanisms, and sets criteria for dietitians to exercise compact privileges.
Additionally, the bill establishes the Dietitian Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the compact's administration, including rule-making, investigations, and managing adverse actions against licensees. It mandates public transparency in commission meetings, outlines a financing structure, and introduces a data system for managing compact-related information. The commission is also granted the authority to adopt emergency rules and revise existing rules as necessary. Furthermore, the bill details oversight and enforcement mechanisms, including procedures for addressing defaults by member states and the process for withdrawal from the compact. Overall, the legislation emphasizes cooperation among states to ensure effective regulation of dietetic practice across state lines.