The proposed "Scope of Practice Act" establishes a new Scope of Practice Advisory Committee, which will be responsible for evaluating proposed changes to the scopes of practice for various health care professions in New Mexico. The committee will consist of nine members, including physicians, health care professionals, an attorney, and representatives of health care consumers, all appointed by the governor and the New Mexico legislative council. The committee will be administratively attached to the Department of Health and will have the authority to hire staff as needed. Members will serve staggered terms, with initial appointments varying in length, and will receive per diem and mileage compensation.

The committee will review written requests from licensing boards or legislators to change scopes of practice, ensuring that these requests include a clear description, evidence-based support, and anticipated impacts on patient safety and health care access. Following a public hearing, the committee will evaluate the requests based on several criteria, including patient safety, workforce competency, and regulatory consistency. After deliberation, the committee will vote on each proposal and produce a report detailing their decision, which will be shared with the legislature, the governor, and relevant licensing boards. Additionally, the bill appropriates $200,000 from the general fund to support the committee's activities in fiscal year 2027.