This bill proposes the establishment of the Athletic Trainer Compact in Nebraska, aimed at improving the mobility of licensed athletic trainers across member states and enhancing public access to athletic training services. The compact allows qualified athletic trainers to practice in other member states while ensuring that each state retains regulatory authority for public health and safety. Key features of the bill include the requirement for criminal background checks for applicants seeking a Compact Qualifying License, adherence to model language and continuing competence standards, and the establishment of a Compact Commission to oversee the compact's implementation. The bill also emphasizes the importance of communication between member states regarding licensure eligibility and investigative information.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments to the governance structure of the Compact Commission, including the formation of an Executive Committee and provisions for public transparency in meetings and rulemaking processes. It establishes a comprehensive data system for tracking licensure and adverse actions, mandates annual audits, and clarifies legal protections for Commission members. The legislation also expands the requirement for criminal background checks to include athletic trainers and specifies that no individual may represent themselves as an athletic trainer without the appropriate license. The act is set to become operative on January 1, 2027, and includes provisions for repealing certain sections of existing statutes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 38-131, 38-404, 38-409