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 not eligible for a speech-language pathologist license may 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 with specific coursework and clinical practicum hours. The bill also defines the scope of practice for assistants and sets requirements for supervising speech-language pathologists, including a minimum of two years of unrestricted licensure and a limit on the number of assistants they can supervise.

Additionally, the bill allows for the annual renewal of licensure for speech-language pathology assistants without restrictions on the number of renewals. 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. The bill includes the insertion of new legal language regarding the qualifications and regulations for speech-language pathology assistants, with no deletions from current law noted in the text provided.