Senate panel backs physician assistant compact; Medicaid official warns on linked federal funds

The Senate committee on Friday recommended approval of House Judiciary substitute for House Bill 10, which would authorize New Mexico to join the Physician Assistant Interstate Compact, after sponsors described negotiated changes and committee members questioned oversight and malpractice implications.

"We stand in support of House Bill 10," Lauren Leland of Think New Mexico said in committee testimony. The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce likewise urged passage. Alana Dances, Medicaid director for the Health Care Authority, told the committee the state had been awarded $211,000,000 annually for five years through a rural health transformation program and that passing four compacts, including the physician assistant compact, was part of commitments tied to that funding. "That money is likely to be clawed back if we do not pass it," Dances said.

Trial lawyer Felice Veil again raised concerns about immunity, venue and a "loser pays" provision on pages 30–31 of the bill and said such language could run contrary to New Mexico public policy on access to the courts.

Sponsor representatives and committee analysts explained amendments mirroring language used in other compacts to clarify license reinstatement where discipline is tied solely to reproductive or gender‑affirming care, to limit data disclosures to New Mexico licensees, and to ensure the attorney general could seek determinations in New Mexico courts in contingent repeal scenarios.

Committee members discussed whether out‑of‑state clinicians would face New Mexico malpractice law; sponsors said legal actions would be brought in New Mexico and New Mexico law would apply in such cases, though coverage under patient care funds depends on the employing institution. Several senators expressed support but noted compacts are no panacea for statewide workforce shortages.

Senator Pinto moved a "do pass" recommendation with a second from Senator Hickey; the committee recorded an 8–0 vote in favor. The bill will proceed to Judiciary for further consideration and additional technical review with compact attorneys.