The bill enacts the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact, which facilitates the interstate practice of physical therapy while preserving state regulatory authority. It allows 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 state participation requirements, and details the process for obtaining a compact privilege to practice in remote states. Additionally, the bill amends the Physical Therapy Act to include provisions for state and federal criminal history background checks for licensure applicants, mandating member states to implement these checks and allowing for the collection of biometric information.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the governance and operational framework of the Physical Therapy Compact Commission, detailing provisions for closed meetings under specific circumstances and requiring accurate minutes of meetings. It establishes a financing structure for the commission, allowing it to collect assessments from member states and accept various revenue sources. The bill introduces qualified immunity and indemnification for commission members and employees, mandates the development of a coordinated database for licensure and investigative information, and clarifies the rulemaking process. It emphasizes enforcement of the compact's provisions, allowing the commission to take legal action against defaulting states and providing a framework for dispute resolution, ultimately aiming to strengthen the compact's effectiveness and ensure compliance among member states.

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