Plain English Summary
This bill establishes a Physician Assistant Licensure Compact that allows PAs with unrestricted licenses in participating states to practice in other participating states through a 'Compact Privilege' without obtaining separate state licenses. The compact creates a national commission to coordinate PA licensure, maintain a shared data system for tracking licensing actions, and set uniform standards while allowing states to maintain their own scope-of-practice rules.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue this compact increases access to medical services by allowing PAs to practice across state lines more easily, reducing administrative burdens and costs for healthcare providers and practitioners. It particularly benefits military families, since active-duty personnel and their spouses can obtain privileges based on licenses from other participating states. The compact creates a more efficient national system for tracking disciplinary actions and qualifications while still preserving each state's ability to regulate scope of practice and impose discipline.
Arguments Against
Opponents may be concerned that allowing PAs to practice across state lines reduces states' ability to maintain their own regulatory standards and oversight of healthcare providers practicing within their borders. Some worry the compact could weaken individual state accountability and consumer protections, and that a national commission system creates additional bureaucratic complexity. There are also questions about whether the uniform requirements in the compact might override states' specific healthcare policies or scope-of-practice definitions.
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 45
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 25
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 47
Cosponsors (2)
Vote Breakdown (1 roll call)
Final Vote
On: Second Reading
Party Breakdown