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Bill

SB 209

PA LICENSURE COMPACT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Sue Rezin

Illinois joins interstate PA Licensure Compact enabling reciprocal physician assistant licensing across member states to increase workforce mobility and healthcare access.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 209

Legislative bill overview

SB 209 would authorize Illinois to join the PA Licensure Compact, an interstate agreement that streamlines professional licensure reciprocity for physician assistants. The compact establishes a mutual recognition framework allowing PAs licensed in one member state to practice in other compact states without requiring separate state licensure applications, though they must still meet individual state practice requirements and supervision standards.

Why is this important

This bill addresses healthcare workforce mobility and accessibility. By reducing administrative barriers, the compact could increase the supply of PAs in underserved areas and reduce patient wait times for care. However, it also raises questions about maintaining consistent quality standards and consumer protections across state lines.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory standardization concerns: Critics may worry that reciprocal licensure could bypass important state-specific regulations, particularly around physician supervision requirements that vary significantly between states
  • Consumer protection variability: Different states have different complaint processes, disciplinary procedures, and malpractice standards—the compact's coordination mechanism may not adequately protect patients if one state's standards are lower
  • Impact on local PA labor market: Healthcare facilities in Illinois might recruit PAs from other states more easily, potentially affecting employment opportunities and wage competitiveness for in-state PAs

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

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