The bill introduces a new chapter, Chapter 48.2, to Title 5 of the General Laws, focusing on the professional licensing and regulation of speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island. It aims to establish standards and procedures for licensing these professionals, incorporating the "American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Code of Ethics" (2016) and defining terms, qualifications, and roles of support personnel. The bill sets forth requirements for clinical fellowships, the state board of examiners, telepractice services, and accreditation standards for educational institutions and programs. It mandates licensure for practice and advertisement in the field, including telepractice, and outlines the educational and professional criteria necessary for licensure, such as holding a degree from an accredited institution and passing a national examination. Licenses are valid for two years and can be renewed biennially, with provisional licenses renewable annually but not exceeding thirty-six months. The bill also accommodates audiologists licensed in other jurisdictions before January 1, 2008.

Furthermore, the bill details procedures for license renewal, reinstatement of lapsed licenses, and inactive status for non-practicing individuals. It describes the process for denial, suspension, and revocation of licenses, and sets requirements for support personnel, including education and registration. Supervising professionals must be licensed and hold a certificate of clinical competency. The bill allows for the renewal of lapsed licenses with an application, renewal fee, and late fee, and reinstatement upon completion of continuing education units. It provides for inactive status with the option to return to active status within a specified timeframe. The bill also establishes continuing education requirements for licensees, rules for the dispensing and selling of hearing aids by audiologists, and procedures for hearings and reviews. The bill is set to take effect upon passage.