HB1185
To Adopt The Dietitian Licensure Compact In Arkansas.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1185, proposes to adopt the Dietitian Licensure Compact in Arkansas. The Compact aims to facilitate the interstate practice of dietetics and improve public access to these services. It achieves this by establishing a system for licensure portability, allowing qualified dietitians to obtain a "Compact Privilege" to practice in other member states without needing to obtain individual licenses in each state. The Compact also aims to eliminate duplicate licensing requirements, reduce administrative burdens for both states and licensees, and enhance the ability of states to protect public health and safety. It will establish a Dietitian Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the program and facilitate the exchange of information among member states. The bill outlines the requirements for states to participate in the Compact and the qualifications individuals must meet to obtain a Compact Privilege, including educational and examination standards. It also addresses the handling of adverse actions and investigative information among member states. Active military members and their spouses are specifically mentioned as beneficiaries of this portability.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be licensed dietitians who wish to practice in multiple states. By adopting the Dietitian Licensure Compact, these professionals could gain the ability to practice in other member states through a 'Compact Privilege,' reducing the need to obtain and maintain separate licenses in each state. This would streamline their ability to offer services, particularly for those who work remotely or move across state lines. Additionally, active military members and their spouses could find it easier to relocate and continue their practice without significant licensing hurdles. The public in Arkansas and other member states could also benefit from increased access to dietetics services due to this enhanced mobility of practitioners.
Who Might Suffer?
This bill is unlikely to directly negatively impact any specific groups or entities in a significant way. The core purpose of the Compact is to streamline licensure for dietitians, which generally benefits both the professionals and the public they serve. While there may be administrative adjustments for the Arkansas licensing board to implement and participate in the Compact Commission, these are generally viewed as operational changes rather than negative impacts. The bill explicitly states that member states retain sole jurisdiction over the requirements for issuing a Single State License, ensuring that the process for individuals seeking only to practice within Arkansas remains under state control. Therefore, there are no clearly identifiable groups or entities that would be directly and negatively impacted by the adoption of this Compact.