During a recent meeting of the North Dakota Legislature's House Industry, Business and Labor Committee, discussions centered on Senate Bill 2341, which proposes North Dakota's participation in an interstate compact for school psychologists. This initiative aims to enhance the state's ability to attract and retain qualified school psychologists, particularly benefiting military families relocating to the area.

Senator Axman, the bill's sponsor, emphasized the advantages of being one of the first states to adopt the compact. He noted that early participation would allow North Dakota representatives to influence the rule-making process, ensuring that the state's needs are adequately addressed. Despite some hesitance regarding potential licensing fees, Axman pointed out that historical trends indicate these fees are typically minimal or non-existent.

Currently, North Dakota has only eight out-of-state school psychologists licensed to practice, highlighting a significant opportunity for growth. By joining the compact, the state hopes to increase visibility and attract more professionals to its schools. Axman reassured committee members that participation in the compact is optional; current licensees can choose to maintain their North Dakota licenses without joining the compact if they prefer.

The committee also addressed concerns regarding the impact of the compact on both on-site and contracted school psychologists. Vice Chair Ausley raised questions about how the compact would affect those professionals who work off-site, indicating a need for clarity on the implications for various employment arrangements.

Overall, the discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing the shortage of school psychologists in North Dakota, with the potential for significant benefits to the education system and the communities it serves. As the committee continues to deliberate, the outcome of Senate Bill 2341 could play a crucial role in shaping the future of mental health support in schools across the state.