S.B. No. 904 amends the Occupations Code to enhance the licensing and regulation of hearing instrument fitters and dispensers in Texas. The bill requires the commission, with the assistance of advisory boards, to adopt rules that establish specific requirements for the sale of hearing instruments. These rules will include provisions for written contracts, record retention, and guidelines for a 30-day trial period during which purchasers can cancel their purchase. Additionally, the bill mandates that all information provided to consumers be in plain language for better understanding.

The bill also modifies the requirements for selling hearing instruments to individuals under 18 years of age. It stipulates that a written statement from a licensed physician must confirm that the patient's hearing loss has been evaluated and that they are a candidate for a hearing instrument. The new language encourages that, whenever practicable, this evaluation should be conducted by a physician specializing in ear diseases. Furthermore, the bill provides exemptions for continuing education requirements for license renewal under certain conditions, such as recent licensure or medical incapacity. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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