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HB 137

An Act relating to an interstate physical therapy licensure compact; relating to the licensure of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, and occupational therapy assistants; and providing for an effective date.

33rd Legislature (2023-2024) Introduced by Dan Ortiz and 3 co-sponsors

Alaska joins multistate licensure compact allowing physical and occupational therapists to practice across member states with single license instead of state-by-state licensing.

(H) COSPONSOR(S): TOMASZEWSKI
#compacts #intergovernmentalrelations #licensing #medicalcare #military #occupations&professions
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Bill Summary · HB 137

Legislative bill overview

HB 137 establishes Alaska's participation in an interstate compact that streamlines licensure for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, and occupational therapy assistants across member states. The compact allows these healthcare professionals to practice in multiple states under a single multistate license rather than obtaining separate licenses in each state.

Why is this important

This addresses workforce mobility and healthcare access in Alaska, a state with geographic challenges and potential provider shortages. By reducing licensing barriers, the compact could increase availability of rehabilitation services, particularly in underserved areas, while allowing qualified professionals to practice across state lines more efficiently.

Potential points of contention

  • Professional standards variance: Different states have different educational requirements, continuing education standards, and scope-of-practice regulations; the compact's unified approach may create concerns about maintaining consistent quality standards across states
  • Economic impact on Alaska providers: In-migration of out-of-state practitioners could increase competition and potentially pressure local wages or market share for existing Alaska-licensed providers
  • Regulatory authority: Ceding some licensure oversight to an interstate compact means Alaska regulators have less direct control over who can practice these professions in the state

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

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