This bill introduces a new licensing category for speech-language pathology assistants in New Mexico, while repealing the existing apprentice license in speech and language. It amends the Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensing Practices Act to define "speech-language pathology assistant" and outlines their scope of practice, which includes assisting licensed speech-language pathologists with administrative and certain clinical tasks under direct supervision. However, these assistants are prohibited from performing diagnostic tests, developing treatment plans, or treating medically fragile patients independently. The bill also establishes the requirements for obtaining this new license, including completion of an accredited educational program, passing a national examination, and fulfilling supervised clinical hours.

Additionally, the legislation revises the fee structure for various professional licenses related to audiology and hearing aid dispensing, setting specific fees for audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and hearing aid dispensers, as well as late renewal and endorsement fees. It also introduces a fee for a bilingual-multicultural endorsement and outlines provisions for reasonable administrative fees. The bill includes a repeal of certain sections of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated 1978, indicating a significant shift in the regulatory framework for these professions, aimed at streamlining the licensing process and updating requirements to align with current practices.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 61-14B-2, 61-14B-16.1, 61-14B-19, 61-14B-20