The bill enacts the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact, which facilitates the interstate practice of physical therapy to improve public access to services while preserving state regulatory authority. It includes provisions for mutual recognition of licenses among member states, enhances cooperation in regulating multistate practice, and supports military spouses. The compact establishes definitions for key terms, outlines requirements for state participation, and details the process for granting compact privileges to licensees from other member states. Additionally, it amends the Physical Therapy Act to require state and federal criminal history background checks for licensure applicants, mandating member states to implement this requirement and allowing for the collection of biometric information.

The bill also enhances the governance and operational framework of the Physical Therapy Compact Commission, introducing provisions for closed meetings under specific circumstances and ensuring the maintenance of minutes and documents from these meetings. It empowers the commission to manage its finances, establish a comprehensive data system for tracking licensure and adverse actions, and outlines the rulemaking process with public notice and comment opportunities. Furthermore, it clarifies conditions for member states to withdraw from the compact and emphasizes the confidentiality of criminal history records obtained during the licensure process, ensuring that only qualified individuals are licensed while protecting their privacy. The bill is set to take effect immediately for the public peace, health, and safety.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 61-12D-5