Senate Bill No. 1042 amends the existing law regarding the Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology in Oklahoma. The bill re-creates the Board, which will continue until July 1, 2027, and modifies the appointment process for its members. Specifically, it removes the previous requirement that successors for the three speech-language pathologist or audiologist positions be selected from a list provided by the Oklahoma Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Instead, the Governor is now permitted to consider recommendations from various statewide organizations representing speech-language pathologists or audiologists, as well as other relevant groups or individuals.

Additionally, the bill maintains the staggered terms of office for Board members and outlines the process for their appointment and reappointment. Members will serve three-year terms, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term after a three-year gap. The bill also stipulates that Board members will be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred while performing their duties. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 59-1607
Floor (Senate): 59-1607