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Committee pauses debate on interstate dietitians licensure compact amid sovereignty concerns
Summary
Lawmakers debated S.160, a proposed interstate compact to allow multistate practice by dietitians. Some members raised sovereignty and values concerns; the sponsor moved to adjourn debate and the committee voted to adjourn pending more information.
The subcommittee paused consideration of Senate Bill 160, the Dietitians Licensure Compact Act, after a wide‑ranging debate about the compact’s practical effects and potential impact on state sovereignty.
Representative Heath Sessions explained the measure as an interstate occupational‑licensing compact intended to allow licensed dietitians to practice across member states without securing a new license in each state. He described compacts as voluntary, constitutionally authorized agreements that give participating states representation on a commission.
Several members, including Representative Beach and others, questioned whether joining a compact would cede regulatory authority or import values from other states or national organizations. Representative Beach flagged language from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics about inclusion and diversity and asked whether the state would be ceding authority. Other members asked practical questions about how difficult cross‑state licensure currently is for dietitians and whether the compact would materially reduce barriers.
Sessions said participation would be voluntary and that South Carolina would have representation on any commission. Citing session timing and outstanding questions, he moved to adjourn debate; the committee voted in favor and debate was suspended. The sponsor said members could return to the issue if questions are resolved.
