Pennsylvania House Bill HB2390

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/16/26
• Refer: 4/16/26

Caption

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact.

Impact

The bill's passage would result in significant changes to how respiratory therapy is regulated in Pennsylvania and potentially in other states that join the compact. By adopting this compact, Pennsylvania would align with other member states in adopting a standardized set of rules governing the practice of respiratory therapy. This could lead to increased job opportunities for therapists and improved patient care through broader access to services. Furthermore, the compact allows for provision for active military members and their spouses to practice without additional fees, recognizing the unique circumstances of military families.

Summary

House Bill 2390, known as the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact Act, empowers the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join an interstate compact that facilitates the practice of respiratory therapy across state lines. This legislation aims to improve public access to respiratory therapy services by allowing licensed respiratory therapists in member states to work in other participating states without needing to obtain additional licenses. The compact is designed to streamline regulatory processes, enhance the cooperation of member states in regulating respiratory therapy, and promote a more mobile workforce, particularly in the context of addressing potential shortages in healthcare professionals.

Contention

Notable discussions surrounding HB2390 include concerns regarding the depth of state oversight and the implications of a multistate licensure system. Proponents argue that the compact will enhance healthcare access by ensuring a sufficient supply of respiratory therapists across states, especially in rural areas. Conversely, opponents express worries that such a system could undermine state regulatory authority and lead to inconsistent practices across states, potentially putting patient safety at risk. The balance between improving access to healthcare and maintaining rigorous standards for practitioners is a primary point of contention as the compact moves through legislative processes.