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 mandate state and federal criminal history background checks for licensure applicants, requiring member states to implement a process that includes obtaining biometric information and submitting it to the FBI.

Moreover, the bill enhances the operational framework of the Physical Therapy Compact Commission, allowing it to close meetings under specific circumstances and requiring detailed minutes of such meetings to be sealed unless released by a majority vote or court order. It outlines the commission's financial responsibilities, including the ability to levy assessments on member states and mandates annual audits. The bill also establishes a comprehensive data system for tracking licensure and adverse actions, strengthens enforcement mechanisms, clarifies the withdrawal process for member states, and emphasizes the severability of its provisions. Specifically, it amends Section 61-12D-5 of the New Mexico Statutes to require criminal history background checks for applicants, ensuring that only qualified individuals are licensed to practice physical therapy.

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