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Debate on interstate dietitian licensure compact paused after concerns over sovereignty and standards
Summary
The committee heard prolonged debate on Senate Bill 160, an interstate Dietitian Licensure Compact, with members split over sovereignty and whether national organizations' policy language affects state values; Representative Sessions moved and the committee agreed to adjourn debate to collect more information.
Representative Heath Sessions presented Senate Bill 160, the Dietitians Licensure Compact Act, which would authorize South Carolina to participate in an interstate occupational licensure compact for dietitians to ease multistate practice and reduce redundant licensure burdens.
Several members raised substantive objections. Representative Beach argued that joining a compact could cede aspects of state sovereignty to national organizations that publish statements on inclusion, diversity or equity; he cited language from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and expressed concern about aligning South Carolina policy with positions members view as inconsistent with their district values. Other members raised practical questions about whether the compact would impose additional regulation or change standards and asked for concrete examples of cross‑state barriers dietitians face.
Supporters said joining is voluntary and that South Carolina would have representation on any compact commission and could exit if necessary; they also argued the compact would reduce licensure friction for mobile professionals and help workforce development. Representative Sessions moved to adjourn debate to give members time to gather more information; the motion passed (9 in favor) and formal debate on the bill was adjourned.
