Conrad State 30 and Physician Access Reauthorization Act

This bill updates and extends the “Conrad State 30” program, which helps bring more doctors to rural and other areas that struggle to get care. It makes it easier for international doctors who train in the U.S. to work, stay, and serve these communities, while adding clear job protections and reporting.

Key points

• More doctors for states: If states use most of their available slots, each state’s slots to place doctors can rise above 30 over time (with safeguards so they don’t drop below 30 if usage falls).
• Stronger worker protections: Doctors must start within 120 days of getting a waiver or finishing training, commit to three years of service, and may change jobs if there are serious problems, with time to find a new position and keep lawful status during the switch.
• Fair contracts: Employers can’t use non‑compete clauses; contracts must list work sites, spell out on‑call expectations, and explain malpractice coverage.
• Clearer path to stay: Doctors who serve in shortage areas get a more certain path toward permanent residence, including those who already finished their service; spouses and children are included.
• Smarter visa rules for trainees: Medical trainees can pursue training even if they plan to stay (dual intent), get automatic work authorization through Oct 1 while moving to their next work status, and can change to a work status that isn’t counted against the usual cap when serving in shortage areas. Spouses and children of exchange visitors aren’t subject to the two‑year home‑return rule.
• Flexible service locations: Service can include VA hospitals or facilities that treat patients from shortage areas, even if the building isn’t inside the shortage zone.
• Public reporting: USCIS must publish a yearly, state‑by‑state count of doctors who came through the program.

Overall, the bill aims to get more doctors to the communities that need them most, protect those doctors at work, and make the rules simpler and clearer.