The bill seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by establishing the Dietitian Licensure Compact, which allows dietitians to practice across member states while ensuring state regulatory authority is maintained. It introduces a new section, 30-35-7a, requiring applicants for the compact to undergo state and national criminal history record checks, including fingerprint submission, with results kept confidential. The bill outlines the criteria for obtaining a compact privilege, such as holding a valid registration and completing accredited educational programs, and mandates that licensees only meet continuing education requirements from their home state.

Additionally, the bill creates the Dietitian Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the compact's implementation, including the authority to take adverse actions against licensees and conduct joint investigations. It enhances operational procedures for the commission, allowing for special meetings and closed discussions on specific matters, while ensuring detailed minutes are kept. The bill also provides for qualified immunity and indemnification for commission members and employees, establishes a coordinated data system for tracking licensure, and outlines processes for dispute resolution and withdrawal from the compact. Overall, these provisions aim to improve governance, accountability, and public access to dietetic services across member states.

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