An Act to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 54.1-2954.2, relating to Respiratory Care Interstate Compact authorized.
HB575 adds a new section to the Code of Virginia authorizing Virginia to enter the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact. The compact is designed to let licensed respiratory therapists practice across member states through a streamlined “compact privilege” system, while preserving each state’s authority to regulate licensure and protect public health and safety. Its stated goals include improving access to respiratory therapy services, reducing administrative burdens, supporting military families, and helping address workforce shortages.
The compact establishes a multi-state framework for licensure cooperation, including definitions for member states, the compact commission, adverse actions, alternative monitoring programs, criminal background checks, and data sharing. It contemplates a commission made up of participating states to administer the compact and coordinate rules for interstate practice. The bill also specifies that the practice occurs in the state where the patient is located, which is important for determining which state’s laws apply during a patient encounter.
This bill expands Virginia law by creating statutory authority for Virginia to join an interstate licensing compact for respiratory therapists. In practical terms, it would allow Virginia-licensed respiratory therapists to obtain compact privileges to practice in other member states, and it would allow out-of-state compact licensees to practice in Virginia under compact rules. It also affects the regulatory responsibilities of the Virginia Board of Medicine and related licensing authorities by requiring participation in compact governance, information sharing, and enforcement coordination with other states.
The bill appears generally favorable and facilitative, reflecting a policy preference for occupational mobility, workforce access, and interstate licensure portability. The text emphasizes public access, patient outcomes, and support for active military members and spouses, suggesting broad support for the compact model. No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no documented opposition or debate in the supplied materials.
The main potential points of contention are the balance between interstate practice and state regulatory control, the sharing of licensing and disciplinary information through a compact commission, and how Virginia would coordinate enforcement when a therapist practices under compact privilege. As with other interstate licensure compacts, concerns could arise over oversight, disciplinary standards, data management, and whether the compact sufficiently protects patients while easing entry into the profession. However, the provided record does not show specific objections from legislators or stakeholders.