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Committee advances respiratory care compact to ease licensing across states
Summary
The committee released SB 216 to let Delaware join an interstate respiratory care compact intended to improve access to respiratory therapists in underserved areas; supporters cited background checks and state oversight safeguards.
The House Sunset Committee voted to release SB 216, which would allow Delaware to join an interstate compact expanding the ability of licensed respiratory care professionals to practice across member states. Supporters said the compact would streamline licensure, reduce duplicative administrative requirements, and help address shortages of respiratory therapists in rural and underserved areas.
The presenter said Delaware would retain authority over regulation, licensing, and disciplining practitioners who practice in the state. Shauna Slaughter, director for the Division of Professional Regulation, clarified that compact membership does not automatically change a practitioner’s scope of practice in Delaware; practitioners must comply with the state’s laws and regulations and are expected to acknowledge state requirements during application.
Carla Ryan of the Delaware Healthcare Association spoke in support of SB 216 on behalf of hospitals and health systems, citing workforce shortages and the critical role of respiratory therapists. After public comment and a brief exchange on past legislation, a motion to release SB 216 carried on roll call and the bill was released to the House floor.
