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SB 181

Interstate compact, respiratory therapists

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Kelley

Alabama joins interstate compact allowing licensed respiratory therapists to practice across member states without separate state licensure, improving healthcare workforce mobility.

Enacted
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Bill Summary · SB 181

Legislative bill overview

SB 181 establishes Alabama's participation in an interstate compact that allows respiratory therapists to practice across state lines without obtaining separate licenses in each state. The compact creates a streamlined credentialing system where therapists licensed in one member state can work in other participating states under a unified regulatory framework.

Why is this important

This addresses workforce mobility and healthcare access by reducing licensing barriers that can delay patient care, particularly in underserved areas and during healthcare crises. It allows states to share licensing verification data and maintain consistent professional standards while reducing administrative costs for both practitioners and state boards.

Potential points of contention

  • Interstate regulatory coordination: Critics may worry about whether a unified compact adequately maintains state-specific safety standards or if Alabama loses regulatory control over practice standards within its borders
  • Labor market effects: Some union representatives or existing respiratory therapists may express concerns about increased out-of-state competition for positions, particularly in rural areas
  • Liability and discipline: Questions may arise about how interstate discipline works—whether a license suspension in one state automatically affects multi-state privileges, and which state's courts handle disputes

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

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