The proposed bill establishes the "Physician Assistant Licensure Compact," which facilitates the practice of physician assistants (PAs) across state lines by allowing those licensed in one participating state to practice in others. It outlines the requirements for states to join the compact, including the implementation of a data system for tracking licenses and adverse actions, as well as conducting criminal background checks. The bill defines key terms related to the compact and establishes the authority of participating states to impose disciplinary actions against PAs. It also specifies the conditions under which PAs can exercise their compact privileges, such as holding a qualifying license and maintaining current certification.
Additionally, the bill creates the PA Licensure Compact Commission, a joint government agency responsible for overseeing the compact's implementation and ensuring compliance among states. The commission will have the authority to create bylaws, establish a code of ethics, and manage its budget, while also maintaining confidentiality regarding sensitive information. Key insertions in the bill include the requirement for criminal justice agencies to provide criminal history information to the Wyoming Board of Medicine for applicants seeking compact privileges, and the board's authority to grant or refuse these privileges based on compliance with the compact's requirements. The compact will take effect once enacted by seven states and includes provisions for amendments, oversight, and dispute resolution.
Statutes affected: 27LSO-0246 v0.5: 7-19-106, 33-26-102, 33-26-501, 33-26-503, 33-26-504, 33-26-506