Rep. Potts files bill in North Carolina House to reform physician assistant licensing

A new bill filed by State Rep. Larry W. Potts seeks to establish a framework for team-based practice and introduce a licensure compact for physician assistants in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina State House.

The bill, filed as HB 672 on April 1 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘Physician Assist. Omnibus/Team-based/Compact.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill aims to reform the supervision and licensing of physician assistants (PAs) in North Carolina by establishing a framework for team-based practice and introducing the PA Licensure Compact. Team-based practice settings are defined, excluding those specializing in pain management, and PAs are allowed to practice independently without direct supervision once they meet specific criteria, including substantial clinical experience. The bill stipulates that in perioperative settings, PAs must still be supervised by a physician. It also outlines the process for obtaining licensure and Compact Privileges, which facilitates PA practice across state lines while safeguarding patient safety. Additionally, it introduces a data reporting system to track licensure and professional conduct among PAs, with specified disciplinary measures for violations. The North Carolina Medical Board is tasked with implementing the necessary rules, and the PA Licensure Compact will take effect nine months after the bill is enacted.

Of the four sponsors of this bill, Donny Lambeth proposed the most bills (45) during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Potts, a Republican, was elected to the North Carolina State House in 2017 to represent the state’s 81st House district, replacing previous state representative Rayne Brown.