Enacts the psychology interjurisdictional compact, the recognition of emergency medical services personnel licensure interstate compact and the interstate counseling compact

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Miller

Bill A 4566 streamlines licensure for psychologists, counselors, and EMS personnel across states, enhancing access to mental health and emergency services.

HELD FOR CONSIDERATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Summary of Bill A 4566

Bill Number: A 4566
Title: Enacts the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact, the Recognition of Emergency Medical Services Personnel Licensure Interstate Compact, and the Interstate Counseling Compact
Status: Held for Consideration in Higher Education
Introduced: February 04, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 4566 aims to enhance the mobility and accessibility of mental health and emergency medical services professionals across state lines. By enacting three separate compacts, the bill seeks to streamline licensure processes, facilitate interstate practice, and improve the delivery of psychological and counseling services, as well as emergency medical services.

Key Provisions

The bill encompasses the following major components:

Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact:

Establishes a framework for psychologists to practice across state lines without needing multiple licenses.
Promotes telepsychology and in-person services, enhancing access to mental health care.

Recognition of Emergency Medical Services Personnel Licensure Interstate Compact:

Allows emergency medical services (EMS) personnel to operate in multiple states under a single license.
Aims to improve response times and coordination during emergencies, particularly in disaster situations.

Interstate Counseling Compact:

Facilitates the practice of licensed professional counselors across state borders.
Supports the provision of mental health services in areas with high demand or limited local resources.

Affected Parties

The bill would primarily impact:

Mental Health Professionals: Psychologists and counselors would benefit from reduced barriers to practice in different states.

Emergency Medical Services Personnel: EMS workers would gain the ability to respond to emergencies in various jurisdictions without the need for multiple licenses.

Patients: Individuals seeking mental health or emergency services would have improved access to care, particularly in underserved areas.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced Date: February 04, 2025

Legislative Actions:

Referred to Higher Education: The bill was initially referred to the Higher Education committee on its introduction date.
Held for Consideration: As of May 20, 2025, the bill is currently held for further consideration in the Higher Education committee.

Conclusion

Bill A 4566 represents a significant step towards improving the mobility of healthcare professionals across state lines, thereby enhancing the availability of essential services. By facilitating interstate practice for psychologists, counselors, and EMS personnel, the bill aims to address gaps in service delivery and respond effectively to the needs of communities. Further discussions and considerations in the Higher Education committee will determine the bill's future progress.

Bill