The bill introduces a new section, 34-28A-21.1, to the Code of Alabama 1975, establishing the minimum qualifications for licensure as a speech-language pathology assistant. It stipulates that individuals who are not eligible for a license as a speech-language pathologist can apply for this assistant role, provided they practice under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist. Eligible candidates must have either a bachelor's degree in speech and hearing sciences or communication disorders, or an associate degree in speech-language pathology assisting, along with specific coursework and clinical practicum hours. The bill also defines the scope of practice for assistants and sets supervision requirements for licensed speech-language pathologists. Additionally, the bill specifies that a supervising speech-language pathologist must have held a full, unrestricted license for at least two years and can supervise no more than three full-time equivalent assistants at a time. Licensure for speech-language pathology assistants can be renewed annually without limitation. The Alabama Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology is tasked with adopting necessary rules for implementation. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.