H.B. No. 1731 proposes the establishment of a Physician Assistant Licensure Compact in Texas, aimed at improving access to medical services by allowing physician assistants (PAs) to practice across state lines more easily. The bill introduces a new Subchapter I to Chapter 204 of the Occupations Code, which outlines the compact's purpose, definitions, and participation requirements for states. It emphasizes mutual recognition of licenses among participating states, enabling PAs to provide services where patients are located while maintaining state licensing board jurisdiction. The bill also allows states to charge fees for granting the Compact Privilege, which permits PAs to practice in multiple states, and sets specific qualifications for PAs, including holding a Qualifying License and completing continuing education.

Additionally, the bill establishes the PA Licensure Compact Commission as a joint government agency responsible for overseeing the compact's implementation, detailing its structure, membership, and powers. It mandates transparency in operations, including public meetings and detailed record-keeping. The bill also introduces amendments to the existing legal framework governing the Commission, including provisions for information disclosure and the rulemaking process. It outlines enforcement mechanisms, allowing the Commission to take legal action against non-compliant states and specifies that states can withdraw from the Compact with a 180-day notice. The Compact will take effect once enacted by the seventh Participating State, with the Act set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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