This bill amends the North Dakota Century Code to update the licensure requirements for speech-language pathology licensed assistants and temporary licensure. Specifically, it modifies the definition of "Audiology" to include the term "managing" in relation to hearing disorders. Additionally, it revises the eligibility criteria for licensure as a speech-language pathology assistant by removing the requirement for "at least" a certain number of supervised clinical experience hours and instead stipulating that applicants must complete a minimum of one hundred hours of supervised clinical experience. The bill also introduces new educational pathways for applicants, allowing those with a bachelor's degree in another field to qualify if they have completed specific coursework related to communication disorders.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new requirements for obtaining a temporary license, stating that applicants must provide proof of active licensure within the past five years from any state or jurisdiction. It also allows the board to set limitations on the duration of temporary licensure and the qualifications necessary for full licensure through its rules. Overall, these changes aim to streamline the licensure process and expand the qualifications for aspiring speech-language pathology assistants in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 43-37-02, 43-37-04, 43-37-13
Adopted by the House Human Services Committee: 43-37-02, 43-37-04
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 43-37-02, 43-37-04
PREFILED: 43-37-02, 43-37-04, 43-37-13