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SD 534

An Act relative to physician assistant interstate compact

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jason Lewis and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts would join a multi-state compact allowing physician assistants licensed in participating states to practice across state lines under streamlined mutual recognition standards.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 534

Legislative bill overview

SD 534 proposes that Massachusetts join the Physician Assistant Interstate Compact, a multi-state agreement that creates a streamlined licensing process for physician assistants (PAs) to practice across participating states. The compact establishes uniform standards and mutual recognition of PA licenses, allowing practitioners to obtain a single multi-state license rather than separate licenses in each state.

Why is this important

This addresses healthcare workforce mobility and access to care, particularly in border regions and underserved areas where patients may cross state lines for treatment. The compact can reduce licensing delays and administrative costs for PAs, potentially increasing their availability and reducing healthcare shortages in rural or underresourced communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory oversight concerns: Critics may worry that streamlined licensing could reduce Massachusetts' ability to enforce its own professional standards and consumer protections compared to individual state vetting
  • Labor market impact: Some may argue that easier out-of-state competition could suppress wages or job opportunities for Massachusetts-based PAs, or conversely that it benefits patients through increased provider supply
  • Scope of practice variation: Different states have different regulations on what PAs can do independently; the compact's framework may create confusion about which state's rules apply in specific situations

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

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