Unlocking care: Nevada’s smart bet on licensing compacts
Nevada’s participation in occupational licensing compacts is a game-changer for its workforce, economy, and residents’ access to critical services. These interstate agreements allow professionals licensed in one compact member state to practice in others without the costly and time-consuming process of obtaining additional state licenses. For Nevada, a state with growing healthcare demands and a mobile population, compacts like the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact (PT Compact), the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact (DDH Compact), and others offer significant advantages.
The PT Compact, which Nevada seeks to join through Assembly Bill 248, streamlines licensure for physical therapists and assistants, enabling them to practice across state lines with a “compact privilege.” This reduces administrative burdens, aligns continuing education requirements, and saves therapists time and money. For Nevada, this means attracting skilled physical therapists to address workforce shortages, particularly in rural areas where access to care is limited. Patients benefit from faster access to therapy services, which can lower healthcare costs and improve outcomes.
Similarly, the DDH Compact, which Nevada lawmakers are considering through Assembly Bill 143, would enhance mobility for dentists and dental hygienists. This compact would allow professionals to apply for a compact privilege, bypassing the need for multiple state licenses. This is especially beneficial for military spouses, who often face licensing hurdles when relocating, and for practitioners near state borders or those practicing remotely. By joining the DDH Compact, Nevada could address dental staff shortages, reduce patient wait times, and improve access to oral healthcare statewide. The Nevada Legislature is also considering Assembly Bill 334 to allow for the immediate licensure of out-of-state hygienists wanting to move and work in Nevada.
Both compacts also strengthen public safety through shared licensure data systems, ensuring that disciplinary actions are communicated across states. Additionally, they support Nevada’s economy by attracting professionals who might otherwise be deterred by licensing barriers, boosting local businesses and tax revenue. For a state with a history of embracing five other compacts, including those for emergency medical services and teaching, adopting the DDH Compact and continuing to leverage the PT Compact positions Nevada as a leader in workforce mobility and healthcare access.
The Council of State Governments (CSG) plays a pivotal role in developing and promoting interstate licensing compacts to enhance workforce mobility and address state-specific challenges. CSG facilitates a consensus-driven process, collaborating with stakeholders, state regulators, and professional associations to draft model compact legislation. Since 2016, CSG has supported the enactment of over 290 pieces of compact legislation across 46 states, Washington, D.C., and three territories, covering 15 professions. By partnering with entities like the Department of Defense, CSG has prioritized compacts for highly mobile populations, such as military spouses, reducing licensure barriers and streamlining multistate practice.
In addition to the physical therapy and dental compacts, the Nevada Legislature is also considering the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (AB106), Counseling Compact (AB163), Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (AB230), Cosmetology Licensure Compact (AB371), and the School Psychologist Interstate Licensure Compact (SB227).
Nevada is already a member of interstate licensure compacts for emergency medical services, massage therapists, physicians, teachers and psychologists.
By embracing these compacts, Nevada not only enhances its healthcare landscape but also sets a precedent for innovation and collaboration, ensuring that residents receive timely, high-quality care from qualified professionals.
