Senate Passes Bill to Help Implement Multistate Professional Licensure Compacts

July 03, 2024

The Senate has passed a bill that will help Pennsylvania implement the multistate nurse and physician licensure compacts.

This afternoon, the chamber unanimously passed House Bill 2200, sponsored by Representative Frank Burns (D–Cambria). The legislation addresses administrative challenges that have prevented Pennsylvania from implementing the multistate physician and nurse licensure compacts for several years. 

Here’s what you need to know:

• What it does:  The legislation includes long-awaited provisions that would resolve issues associated with federal background checks that have prevented the compacts from becoming a reality in Pennsylvania.
• Why it matters:  Pennsylvania hospitals are working to build a strong workforce for the future. Implementation of the multistate licensure compacts will support these efforts.
• Next steps:  The legislation will become law upon the governor’s signature.   
• Advocacy priority:  HAP’s Roadmap for Growing Pennsylvania’s Health Care Talent identified the compacts as a key resource for Pennsylvania, enabling out-of-state licensed professionals to relocate and work in the commonwealth.

HAP has been working at the state and federal levels to address the background-check issue and thanks the state lawmakers—and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and other federal stakeholders—for their efforts to support the health care workforce.

The bill is available for review online. For questions, contact Heather Tyler, vice president, state legislative advocacy.