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S 1506

An Act establishing a physical therapy licensure compact

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sal DiDomenico and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts joins interstate physical therapy licensure compact allowing therapists to practice across participating states under single license, improving mobility while maintaining regulatory standards.

Committee recommended ought to pass and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 1506

Legislative bill overview

S 1506 establishes a physical therapy licensure compact that would allow physical therapists licensed in Massachusetts to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses in each state. The compact creates an interstate agreement framework similar to existing compacts for nurses and other healthcare professions, streamlining regulatory oversight while maintaining state-based licensure standards.

Why is this important

This bill addresses workforce mobility in healthcare by reducing barriers for physical therapists to practice across state lines, potentially improving patient access to care in underserved areas and reducing licensing costs and administrative delays for practitioners. It reflects a national trend toward interstate compacts that balance professional mobility with public protection.

Potential points of contention

  • State regulatory autonomy: Some may argue compacts reduce individual state control over healthcare standards and discipline, potentially creating accountability gaps if one state's standards differ significantly from others
  • Consumer protection concerns: Questions about whether a compact adequately protects patients if a therapist licensed in a lower-standard state practices in Massachusetts, or how complaints across state lines are handled
  • Economic impact on practitioners: Some established physical therapists may view increased interstate competition as threatening to their practice, while others see it as beneficial for market competition and patient choice

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

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