Bill > HB183

This bill establishes the Physician Assistant (PA) Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to streamline licensure and improve access to medical services for physician assistants. The compact creates a system where PAs with a qualifying license in one participating state can obtain a "compact privilege" to practice in other participating states without obtaining a separate license in each state. Key provisions include establishing a national data system to track PA licensure and disciplinary actions, creating a PA Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the compact's implementation, and setting specific requirements for PAs to qualify for a compact privilege. These requirements include graduating from an accredited PA program, holding current national certification, having no felony convictions, and maintaining an unrestricted license in good standing. The bill also amends existing state law to require criminal background checks for PA licensure, allowing the state to obtain fingerprint-based background checks from applicants. The compact aims to reduce administrative barriers for PAs, particularly benefiting military families and healthcare providers who work across state lines, while maintaining state-level oversight and patient safety standards.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2876