How compacts connect states across borders through policy

On this episode of our ‘Explained’ series: Interstate compacts are little-known yet powerful agreements that allow states to work together on critical issues like healthcare, occupational licensing, and transportation. These agreements help states streamline policies, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and even improve access to essential services. But how do they work, and why are they becoming more prominent in recent years?

In this episode, we’re joined by Joana Da Silva-Gonzalez, Manager of Policy Initiatives at West Virginia University’s Knee Center. Joana specializes in state policy research and legislative trends, with a particular focus on workforce mobility, healthcare access, and regulatory frameworks. She breaks down the mechanics of interstate compacts, highlights recent legislative trends, and explains how these agreements are shaping the landscape of professions like medicine, social work, and education.

• Learn more about interstate compacts: https://ballotpedia.org/Interstate_compact 
• Check out West Virginia University’s Knee Center: https://csorwvu.com/ 
• Sign up for our Newsletters: https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia_Email_Updates 

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*On The Ballot is a conversational podcast featuring interviews with guests across the political spectrum. The views and opinions expressed by them are solely their own and are not representative of the views of the host or Ballotpedia as a whole.