AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives gave initial approval on Wednesday to a measure sponsored by Rep. Kristen Cloutier, D-Lewiston, that would add Maine to the Compact for Licensing Physician Assistants (PAs).
LD 2043 would allow licensed PAs to practice in member states without having to obtain a new license for each state. The compact would take effect only when seven states have enacted this legislation, allowing qualified PAs to practice with fewer administrative hurdles.
"Our health care workforce has been struggling to meet the needs of Mainers," said Cloutier. "LD 2043 provides a solution to incorporate more PAs into our workforce by allowing them to obtain a privilege in each compact member state where they wish to work. This will allow more Mainers to receive the care that they need."
The bill faces additional votes in the House and Senate in the coming days.
Cloutier is the Assistant House Majority Leader and is currently serving her third consecutive term in the Maine House of Representatives. She represents House District 94, which includes part of her hometown of Lewiston.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Cloutier], 305-965-2744