This bill establishes new licensure requirements for speech-language pathology assistants in Minnesota, detailing educational qualifications, criminal history background checks, and licensure fees. It amends Minnesota Statutes by adding provisions under section 148.5181, requiring applicants to possess either an associate's degree from an accredited program or a bachelor's degree in communication sciences or disorders, along with supervised fieldwork experience. The bill also mandates criminal history checks and continuing education for license renewal. Additionally, it introduces specific titles and restrictions for assistants, prohibiting the use of certain terms unless licensed, and allows individuals employed in the field prior to the bill's enactment to practice without a license until July 1, 2029, under certain conditions.

Furthermore, the bill revises supervision and delegation requirements for speech-language pathology assistants, clarifying the responsibilities of supervising speech-language pathologists and the limitations on the duties assistants can perform, such as not conducting diagnostic tests or providing client counseling. It introduces new licensure fees and penalties for practicing without a current license, as well as penalties for unauthorized practice and late submission of continuing education reports. The bill also expands the Speech-Language Pathologist and Audiologist Advisory Council from 12 to 13 members, now including a licensed speech-language pathology assistant, and outlines the council's duties related to licensure standards and enforcement. All changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 144.0572, 148.511, 148.512, 148.513, 148.514, 148.515, 148.518, 148.519, 148.5191, 148.5192, 148.5193, 148.5194, 148.5195, 148.5196, 245C.031