Senate Passes Roegner Bill Entering Ohio Into The Respiratory Care Interstate Compact

COLUMBUS—The Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 149, sponsored by State Senator Kristina Roegner (R-Hudson), which would enter Ohio into the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact.

“Access to quality respiratory care is essential for communities across Ohio," said Senator Roegner. "Senate Bill 149 promotes workforce mobility while maintaining professional standards, allowing licensed respiratory therapists to practice across participating states and helping Ohio meet the growing demand for healthcare services.”

As a member of the compact, Ohio would recognize respiratory care licenses issued by other compact member states via Compact Privilege. Compact Privilege is a classification given to professionals who meet certain requirements. To qualify for Compact Privilege, the licensee must:

• Hold and maintain an active home state license as a respiratory therapist;
• Hold and maintain an active credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (or its successor);
• Not have had any adverse action against a license within the previous two years;
• Notify the Commission that the licensee is seeking the Compact privilege in another state;
• Pay any applicable fees, including any state and Commission fees and renewal fees;
• Meet any requirements established by the other state; and
• Report to the Commission adverse action taken by any nonmember state within 30 days from the date it is taken.

SB 149 has been sent to the Ohio House for further consideration.

 
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