The bill amends Chapter 5-48.2 of the General Laws, which governs the licensing and regulation of speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island. Key changes include the introduction of a two-year validity period for licenses, with biennial renewals contingent upon meeting specified requirements. The previous mandate for licensees to maintain their certificate of clinical competence has been removed. Additionally, the bill outlines a process for renewing lapsed licenses and allows individuals to maintain an inactive status without fees for up to two consecutive licensing periods. It also revises the qualifications for speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs), replacing the bachelor's degree requirement with more flexible educational criteria and detailing their scope of practice under the supervision of licensed professionals.

Moreover, the bill establishes new regulations for SLPAs and audiometric aides, including specific responsibilities such as performing routine therapy activities and utilizing telecommunications for remote services. It mandates that SLPAs be registered and re-register every two years, with supervision requirements limiting the number of SLPAs a supervisor can oversee. The bill emphasizes the importance of supervision, requiring documentation of support personnel's performance and establishing minimum supervision standards during the initial employment period. Continuing education requirements for licensed professionals are also modified, removing the previous cultural competency and ethics hours while mandating the board to set requirements for SLPA license renewals. The act will take effect upon passage, ensuring the licensing framework remains current and effective.