The bill introduces a new section, 34-28A-21.1, to the Code of Alabama 1975, which outlines the minimum qualifications for licensure as a speech-language pathology assistant. Eligible candidates must practice under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist and meet specific educational requirements, including either a bachelor's degree in speech and hearing sciences or an associate degree in speech-language pathology assisting with a minimum of 30 semester credit hours in relevant subjects. Additionally, those with an associate degree must complete at least 100 clinical practicum hours under supervision. The bill specifies that speech-language pathology assistants can only provide services in non-hospital settings if they hold an associate degree.

The bill also establishes 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.