SB 402: eliminating certain non-compete agreements for physician associates.
SB 402 status: Introduced — Enrolled (in recess of) 04/23/2026 HJ 11 P. 82 (updated Jul 21, 2026).
What this bill does
Overall score
Bill summary
OfficialA bill is currently being discussed in the Senate that would ban "non-compete" contracts for physician assistants (PAs). If passed, this would make it easier for PAs to switch jobs without their former employer blocking them from working at a different clinic nearby.
Key analysis
Impact analysis
Environment
Benefits
- No material impact on the environment
Risks
- No material impact on the environment
Economy
Benefits
- Increases labor mobility for physician associates
- Reduces employer leverage in contract negotiations
Risks
- May require healthcare employers to adjust recruitment or retention strategies
Society
Benefits
- Potentially improves healthcare access by allowing providers to relocate
- Empowers healthcare professionals to transition roles without geographic barriers
Risks
- Short-term transition concerns for medical practices managing turnover
How trustworthy & consequential it is
Source
LegiScan
Confidence
highhigh
Analysis status
LegiScan full bill text
Employers may pivot to non-solicitation agreements or liquidated damages clauses to bypass the intent of this ban
Applies only to new contracts or renewals after the effective date
Where it stands
Introduced
CurrentEnrolled (in recess of) 04/23/2026 HJ 11 P. 82
Committee
UpcomingFloor
UpcomingGovernor
UpcomingEnacted
UpcomingHow it affects your district
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