The proposed bill establishes the "Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact," designed to enhance the interstate practice of audiology and speech-language pathology, thereby improving public access to these essential services. It allows for the mutual recognition of licenses among member states while maintaining each state's regulatory authority to ensure public health and safety. The bill outlines the requirements for state participation, including conducting criminal history background checks for applicants, which necessitate the submission of fingerprints for federal and state record checks. It also addresses the rights of active duty military personnel and their spouses regarding home state designation and the authority of remote states to take necessary adverse actions against practitioners.

Furthermore, the bill creates the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Compact Commission, which will oversee the regulation of practitioners across member states. The commission is granted the authority to take adverse actions against licenses, issue subpoenas, and maintain a coordinated data system for tracking licensure and adverse actions. New provisions include a structured rulemaking process that requires public notice and hearings for proposed rules, as well as a framework for dispute resolution among member states. The compact will take effect once enacted by the tenth member state, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
JC substitute: 61-14B-11