Little Apple Times

U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann from Kansas and Joe Neguse from Colorado have reintroduced a bill aimed at tackling the nationwide shortage in the health care workforce. The States Handling Access to Reciprocity for Employment (SHARE) Act of 2025 proposes requiring the FBI to share criminal record information with state agencies conducting background checks for interstate compacts. This change could streamline the licensing process for health care providers and enable more professionals to work across state lines.

Rep. Mann emphasized the need for flexibility, particularly in rural communities. "We need flexibility in our health care systems to ensure rural communities like those in the Big First have access to good, quality care," Mann stated. He highlighted the importance of the act in "expediting the licensure process for providers by allowing the FBI to share background checks across state lines" to help these communities.

The SHARE Act is designed to remove administrative barriers, uphold states' rights, and address workforce shortages. By granting states the ability to share criminal history for licensure purposes, the bill aims to ensure states can still determine provider eligibility while expanding the reach of health care professionals through new technologies like telehealth.

Among the legislation's supporters are Reps. Don Davis, Doug LaMalfa, Dan Crenshaw, and others. It has also gained backing from numerous organizations, including the American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, and the American Telemedicine Association.

Organizations have voiced their support for the act. Donnie Woodyard of the EMS Compact emphasized its impact on EMS workforce and public safety. Phil Dickison of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing described it as a step towards better patient care access. Amanda Perry of the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission discussed its role in ensuring public safety and professional accountability.