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SB 972

Public Records and Meetings/Respiratory Care Interstate Compact

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tommy Wright

SB 972 establishes an interstate compact enabling respiratory care professionals to practice across participating states without separate licenses through reciprocal recognition and uniform standards.

Introduced
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Bill Summary · SB 972

Legislative bill overview

SB 972 creates an interstate compact allowing respiratory care practitioners licensed in one state to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. The bill establishes reciprocal recognition agreements and creates a governing commission to oversee the compact's administration and enforcement of uniform standards.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses healthcare workforce mobility and potential shortages of respiratory therapists by reducing licensing barriers across state lines. It could improve patient access to respiratory care services, particularly in underserved areas, while allowing qualified practitioners to work more flexibly across state boundaries.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory standards variation: Different states have varying educational requirements and scope of practice rules for respiratory therapists; a compact must balance reciprocity with consumer protection and safety standards
  • State sovereignty concerns: Some states may resist ceding regulatory authority to an interstate commission, particularly regarding disciplinary actions and licensure decisions
  • Scope creep and enforcement: Questions about how violations in one state affect privileges in other compact states, and whether uniform standards might be inadequate for some jurisdictions' needs

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

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