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Committee backs PSYPACT compact testimony: proponents say telepsychology access will expand across state lines
Summary
HB 241 would adopt the PSYPACT interstate compact to enable licensed psychologists to provide telepsychology to patients in other member states. Proponents — psychologists, AARP, hospital associations — said the compact improves continuity of care and access in rural areas.
Representative Etchart introduced House Bill 241 to adopt the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT) in Montana. Proponents described the compact as a state‑enacted interstate agreement that allows qualified psychologists to practice across participating states, including via telehealth.
AARP volunteer Jane Amdahl highlighted benefits for caregivers and rural patients who face long travel distances for specialty psychological services. Dr. Michelle McKinney, a licensed psychologist and member of the Montana Psychological Association, described cases where long‑term therapeutic relationships were interrupted when patients moved out of state; she said the compact preserves continuity and allows clinicians to provide telepsychology where the patient temporarily resides in another member state.
Hospital and licensing officials (Heather O’Hara, Kevin Bragg) testified that the compact supports workforce flexibility and would be administered under existing licensing and board oversight. Committee questions focused on administrative details, whether Montana already participates in similar compacts and how the compact interfaces with existing licensing rules; staff said Montana currently operates several licensing compacts but not PSYPACT and explained procedures for rule and compact implementation.
Proponents requested a do‑pass recommendation; committee members discussed possible sponsors to carry the bill in subsequent stages.
