Legislative
The South Dakota Society for Respiratory Care keeps a watch on issues that may have an affect on our patients and our profession. We partner with our lobbyist and actively work with legislators to educate them about the value of the Respiratory Care Practitioner and to ensure our patients receive the quality of care they deserve.
Below are some helpful links to help you participate in federal and local legislation concerning Respiratory Care:
Compact Licensure
AARC is thrilled to announce that 2025 marks the launch of state advocacy efforts for the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact (RCIC).
This groundbreaking initiative, developed in collaboration with the Council of State Governments and the Department of Defense, aims to streamline licensure for respiratory therapists across participating states, enhancing patient care and workforce mobility. AARC is calling on its state affiliates to take action.
Our affiliate has been in contact with Miriam O'Day, AARC Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, to schedule a brief strategy session and learn how to bring this initiative to our state.
If you would like to join the SDSRC Compact Licensure Committee, please reach out to sdsrc.president@gmail.com.
SOAR Act
There is strength in numbers! Send an email to your representative and ask them cosponsor bipartisan legislation H.R. 7829, the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act.
The SOAR Act would bring significant health and well-being benefits to the 1.5 million individuals living with COPD, heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary fibrosis, people awaiting lung transplants and other advanced respiratory diseases who rely on supplemental oxygen.
ADVOCATE
In South Dakota we’re committed to advocating for respiratory therapists and the patients we serve. From working with legislators on the state and federal levels for better policies to ensuring RT recognition, we’re working tirelessly to advance our profession. Tune into the advocacy page on AARC’s website to:
✅ Stay informed on key legislative updates
✅ Get involved in advocacy efforts that matter
✅ Make a difference in shaping the future of respiratory care
Your voice matters! Join us in advocating for positive change and stronger support for respiratory care.
🔗 Learn more about AARC’s advocacy efforts: https://www.aarc.org/advocacy/state-advocacy/
#AARCAdvocacy #RespiratoryCare #RTsMakeADifference #StateAdvocacy #AARC2025
SDSRC Legislative Team
PACT Representative - Kathy Mitzel
Legislative Chair - TBD
Lobbyist - Jeremiah Murphy