The bill proposes the establishment of the Dietitian Licensure Compact in West Virginia, which aims to streamline the practice of dietetics across state lines while preserving state regulatory authority. It introduces a new section, 30-35-7a, that mandates state and national criminal history record checks for applicants, including fingerprint submission, with the results kept confidential. The bill outlines the criteria for obtaining a compact privilege, allowing licensed dietitians to practice in member states without needing multiple licenses, provided they meet specific educational and experience requirements, hold an unencumbered home state license, and pay applicable fees. Additionally, it establishes a Dietitian Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the compact's implementation, including rulemaking and dispute resolution processes.

The legislation also includes amendments to enhance the operational procedures of the compact commission, such as allowing special meetings with short notice for emergency business and permitting closed meetings for sensitive discussions. It provides for qualified immunity and indemnification for commission members and employees, ensuring protection from liability in the course of their duties. The bill details the financing structure for the commission, including the ability to levy assessments on member states and collect fees from licensees. Furthermore, it outlines procedures for addressing defaults by member states, ensuring that compact privileges are recognized for a minimum of six months post-termination, and clarifies the effective date and amendment processes for the compact. Overall, these provisions aim to improve governance, accountability, and operational efficiency within the compact framework.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-35A-1, 30-35A-2, 30-35A-3, 30-35A-4, 30-35A-5, 30-35A-6, 30-35A-7, 30-35A-8, 30-35A-9, 30-35A-10, 30-35A-11, 30-35A-12, 30-35A-13, 30-35A-14
Committee Substitute: 30-35-7a, 30-35A-1, 30-35A-2, 30-35A-3, 30-35A-4, 30-35A-5, 30-35A-6, 30-35A-7, 30-35A-8, 30-35A-9, 30-35A-10, 30-35A-11, 30-35A-12, 30-35A-13, 30-35A-14
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 30-35-7a, 30-35A-1, 30-35A-2, 30-35A-3, 30-35A-4, 30-35A-5, 30-35A-6, 30-35A-7, 30-35A-8, 30-35A-9, 30-35A-10, 30-35A-11, 30-35A-12, 30-35A-13, 30-35A-14