Establishes the "Respiratory Care Interstate Compact"

HB 2644 creates the "Respiratory Care Interstate Compact," allowing respiratory therapists licensed in one participating state to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. This directly affects licensed respiratory therapists and supports active military members and their spouses who relocate across state lines. The bill establishes a "Compact Privilege" that lets therapists practice under their home state license while adhering to the patient’s location rules, requiring only a criminal background check and active home state license. It aims to improve access to respiratory therapy services, reduce administrative burdens, and address workforce shortages without altering state licensing authority.