Interstate compact, respiratory therapists

SB 181 proposes that Alabama join the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact, allowing licensed respiratory therapists to practice in other states that are also part of the compact. This bill aims to improve patient access to respiratory therapy services and streamline the licensing process for therapists who wish to work in multiple member states. It establishes a "compact privilege" for therapists based on their home state license and creates a commission to manage the compact, including overseeing disciplinary actions and joint investigations. The compact is designed to support workforce mobility and assist active military members and their spouses.