This bill proposes the establishment of a new chapter in Title 15.1 of the North Dakota Century Code to create the interstate compact for school psychologists. The compact is designed to enhance the interstate practice of school psychology, improving access to psychological services in educational settings by allowing school psychologists to obtain equivalent licenses in member states without facing duplicative requirements. It emphasizes the authority of each member state to regulate school psychology within its jurisdiction while promoting workforce mobility and ensuring that only qualified professionals provide these services. The bill outlines provisions for state participation, including the enactment of a compact statute, information sharing, and criteria for obtaining and maintaining equivalent licenses, which include passing a national examination and completing a supervised internship.
Additionally, the bill details the governance structure and operational procedures of the commission that will oversee the compact. It mandates that delegates be the primary administrative officer or a designee from the member state's licensing authority and establishes rules for their terms and potential term limits. The commission is empowered to recommend the removal or suspension of delegates and must fill vacancies within sixty days. It is required to meet at least once a year and may hold additional meetings as necessary. The bill also outlines the commission's responsibilities, including maintaining financial records and conducting annual reviews, while providing qualified immunity for commission members against civil liability, except in cases of intentional misconduct. Overall, the bill aims to streamline regulatory processes, enhance accountability, and improve the governance of the interstate compact for school psychologists.