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HB 1046

RELATING TO THE INTERSTATE MEDICAL LICENSURE COMPACT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

Hawaii bill to join interstate medical licensure compact, enabling expedited physician licensing across member states to address healthcare access shortages.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 1046

Legislative bill overview

HB 1046 would allow Hawaii to join the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), a multi-state agreement that streamlines the licensing process for physicians who want to practice in multiple states. Under this compact, physicians licensed in one member state can obtain expedited licenses in other member states without additional examination or extensive credential review. The bill removes barriers to interstate medical practice by establishing reciprocal licensing arrangements.

Why is this important

This addresses real shortages in healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved areas where physician availability is limited. By allowing physicians to more easily practice across state lines, Hawaii could attract specialists and primary care providers from the mainland and neighboring states, potentially reducing wait times and expanding care options for residents. The expedited licensing process also benefits physicians by reducing administrative burden and cost when relocating or establishing multi-state practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory standards variation: Different states have different continuing education and patient safety standards; some argue that reciprocal licensing may dilute Hawaii's specific medical board oversight and quality controls
  • Local workforce impact: Concerns that easier out-of-state licensing could reduce incentives for physicians to permanently relocate to Hawaii or for Hawaii medical schools to expand local physician supply
  • Board autonomy: Hawaii's medical licensing board would cede some independent authority to compact requirements, potentially limiting the state's ability to set its own licensure standards or discipline physicians differently than other member states

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

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