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HB 10

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT INTERSTATE COMPACT

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gail Armstrong and 4 co-sponsors

New Mexico joins interstate compact allowing physician assistants licensed in member states to practice across state lines with streamlined reciprocal licensing.

action postponed indefinitely
#health&healthfacilities #licensure
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Bill Summary · HB 10

Legislative bill overview

HB 10 establishes New Mexico's participation in the Physician Assistant Interstate Compact, a multi-state agreement that streamlines licensure and regulation of physician assistants across participating states. The compact allows PAs licensed in one member state to practice in other member states without obtaining separate state licenses, though each state retains regulatory oversight. This bill authorizes New Mexico to join this interstate framework and designate a compact administrator.

Why is this important

Healthcare workforce mobility directly affects patient access to care, particularly in rural and underserved areas. By reducing licensing barriers, the compact could increase PA availability across state lines and lower administrative costs for healthcare providers. However, it also requires New Mexico to recognize and enforce licensing standards set by other states, which could create tensions between state autonomy and interstate cooperation.

Potential points of contention

  • Professional autonomy vs. interstate reciprocity: New Mexico may need to accept PAs licensed under different (possibly less stringent) standards in other compact states, potentially diluting local regulatory control
  • Consumer protection standards: Variations in disciplinary actions, continuing education requirements, or background checks across states could affect patient safety oversight
  • Implementation costs and administrative burden: Creating a compact administrator position and establishing reciprocal agreements requires infrastructure investment and ongoing coordination with other states

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

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