The Respiratory Care Interstate Compact (RCIC)

This is a real initiative that allows licensed respiratory therapists to practice in multiple states without obtaining individual licenses for each, though it is a new compact still in the process of being adopted by states.

The model legislation for the compact was finalized in October 2024. States can now begin adopting the legislation through their respective legislative processes. On average, compacts take 1–2 years after finalization to reach the required activation threshold. For the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact, this threshold is set at seven states. Once seven states have enacted the legislation, a commission will be established, composed of representatives from those member states. This commission will be responsible for overseeing the compact’s implementation and developing the data system that will enable states to begin issuing compact privileges. Full operationalization of the compact typically occurs 2–3 years after the activation threshold is met.