The proposed bill establishes the "Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact," designed to facilitate the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology across participating states. It allows audiologists and speech-language pathologists to practice in member states under a "compact privilege," recognizing licenses from their home states. The bill mandates criminal history background checks for licensure applicants, including fingerprint submissions for federal and state checks, ensuring adherence to educational and professional standards. It also addresses telehealth practices and the unique licensure circumstances for active duty military personnel and their spouses, while granting remote states the authority to take adverse actions against practitioners.

Additionally, the bill creates the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Compact Commission, which will oversee the regulation of practitioners across state lines. The commission will consist of delegates from each member state's licensing board and will have the authority to conduct joint investigations and maintain a coordinated database of licensure and disciplinary actions. The bill emphasizes transparency by requiring public meetings and the posting of relevant documents, while also introducing provisions for dispute resolution among member states and a structured withdrawal process from the compact. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework for audiology and speech-language pathology practices while ensuring compliance with established standards.

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