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HB 1622

A BILL for an Act to create and enact chapter 43-17.5 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the physician assistant licensure compact; to amend and reenact section 43-17-01, subsection 1 of section 43-17-02.1, and sections 43-17-02.2 and 43-17-46 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the requirements of physician assistants privileged to practice under the physician assistant licensure compact; and to provide an effective date.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26)

North Dakota joins multistate PA licensure compact allowing licensed physician assistants to practice across member states without separate state licenses, streamlining workforce mobility.

Committee Hearing 11:30
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Bill Summary · HB 1622

Legislative bill overview

HB 1622 establishes North Dakota's participation in the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement allowing PAs licensed in one member state to practice in other member states without obtaining separate licenses. The bill modifies existing PA licensing requirements in North Dakota Century Code to align with compact standards and establish the framework for reciprocal practice privileges.

Why is this important

This compact addresses healthcare workforce mobility and access to care, particularly in rural areas where PA shortages are common. By reducing licensing barriers, the bill could increase healthcare provider availability across state lines while generating revenue for North Dakota through compact fees and potentially attracting providers to the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory standards variation: Different member states may have varying educational, supervision, and continuing education requirements; critics worry this could create inconsistent quality of care standards
  • Supervision requirements: The bill modifies PA supervision rules—some may argue reduced state-level oversight compromises patient safety or physician authority
  • Economic impact on licensing boards: Reciprocal licensing could reduce individual state licensing fee revenue and administrative workload, affecting state health department budgets and staffing

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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