The proposed bill establishes the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact, which facilitates the practice of respiratory therapy across member states by allowing licensed respiratory therapists to work in multiple states. This initiative aims to enhance public access to respiratory therapy services while preserving state regulatory authority to ensure public health and safety. Key objectives include increasing service accessibility, fostering inter-state cooperation, and addressing workforce shortages, particularly for active military members and their spouses, who are exempt from certain fees associated with the compact privilege.

The bill outlines governance and operational procedures for a commission that will oversee respiratory therapy licensing among member states. It includes provisions for rule-making, requiring public hearings for proposed rules, and mandates the commission to maintain accurate financial records. Additionally, the bill introduces new sections detailing the effective date of the compact, the withdrawal process for member states, and amendment procedures, while ensuring that member states can enact laws related to respiratory therapy that do not conflict with the compact. The framework aims to create a cohesive regulatory environment while allowing for flexibility and compliance with state-specific laws.