S.B. No. 904 amends the Occupations Code to enhance the licensing and regulation of hearing instrument fitters and dispensers in Texas. The bill updates the rules governing the sale of hearing instruments, requiring that the written contracts and information regarding a 30-day trial period be presented in plain language that is easily understood by consumers. It also removes references to specific advisory boards, streamlining the process for adopting these rules. Additionally, the bill modifies the conditions under which a license holder may renew their license without meeting continuing education requirements, eliminating previous stipulations related to the timing of their initial licensure.

Furthermore, the bill revises the requirements for selling hearing instruments to individuals under 18 years of age. It mandates that a written statement from a licensed physician confirming the medical evaluation of the patient's hearing loss must be presented, while also suggesting that the evaluation should ideally be conducted by a physician specializing in ear diseases. The changes outlined in this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to conduct occurring after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 401.2021, Occupations Code 402.1021, Occupations Code 402.305, Occupations Code 402.402 (Occupations Code 402, Occupations Code 401)
Senate Committee Report: Occupations Code 401.2021, Occupations Code 402.1021, Occupations Code 402.305, Occupations Code 402.402 (Occupations Code 402, Occupations Code 401)
Engrossed: Occupations Code 401.2021, Occupations Code 402.1021, Occupations Code 402.305, Occupations Code 402.402 (Occupations Code 402, Occupations Code 401)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 401.2021, Occupations Code 402.1021, Occupations Code 402.305, Occupations Code 402.402 (Occupations Code 402, Occupations Code 401)
Enrolled: Occupations Code 401.2021, Occupations Code 402.1021, Occupations Code 402.305, Occupations Code 402.402 (Occupations Code 402, Occupations Code 401)