The bill amends and reenacts specific sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the licensure requirements for speech-language pathology licensed assistants, temporary licensure, and the investigation of alleged violations. Notably, the definition of "Audiology" is expanded to include the term "managing" in relation to hearing disorders. The eligibility criteria for licensure have been revised, removing the requirement for applicants to be of good moral character and specifying that speech-language pathology assistants must complete a minimum of one hundred hours of supervised clinical experience or fieldwork, along with additional educational requirements. Furthermore, a new provision allows for temporary licensure for individuals who have held active licensure within the past five years.

Additionally, the bill enhances the board's authority during investigations of alleged violations by allowing it to subpoena and examine records, including client or patient records, and to require statements under oath or physical/psychological examinations if deemed necessary for public interest. The confidentiality of client and patient records is emphasized, stating that such records released to the board are not considered public records. Lastly, the bill outlines the process for license reinstatement after revocation, allowing individuals to apply for reinstatement one year post-revocation, subject to the board's discretion.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 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
Adopted by the Senate Workforce Development Committee: 43-37-02, 43-37-04, 43-37-13
Adopted by the Conference Committee: 43-37-02, 43-37-04, 43-37-13
Enrollment: 43-37-02, 43-37-04, 43-37-13
INTRODUCED: 43-37-02, 43-37-04, 43-37-13