Bill > S3560

This bill enters New Jersey into the Interstate Physician Assistant (PA) Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to streamline licensure for physician assistants across participating states. The compact creates a system where PAs can more easily practice across state lines by obtaining a "Compact Privilege" in addition to their primary state license. To qualify, PAs must have graduated from an accredited program, hold current national certification, have no felony convictions, and maintain an unrestricted license in good standing. The compact establishes a national PA Licensure Compact Commission to manage the program, which will develop a centralized data system to track licensure, adverse actions, and investigative information about PAs. The commission will have broad powers including creating rules, collecting fees, and facilitating interstate cooperation. Key benefits include reducing administrative burdens for PAs, especially for military families, while maintaining state-level oversight of professional standards and patient safety. The compact will only take effect once seven states have enacted substantially similar legislation, and participating states can withdraw with a 180-day notice period. PAs will be able to practice in remote states under the remote state's laws while maintaining their primary license in their home state, potentially improving healthcare access across state boundaries.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3560