Health occupations: audiologists; audiologist and speech language pathologist licensure compact; provide for. Amends secs. 16801 & 17601 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16801 & 333.17601) & adds secs. 16187, 16804 & 17603a.
What changed between versions
Added a new section establishing the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact, allowing professionals to practice in other member states without obtaining a new license.
Added numerous new definitions including 'compact privilege,' 'remote state,' 'home state,' and 'telehealth' to clarify the legal framework for interstate practice.
Added mandatory criminal background checks using FBI records for all applicants seeking a compact privilege to ensure public safety.
Added specific educational and experience requirements for audiologists and speech-language pathologists to qualify for the interstate compact privilege.
Established a national Commission and data system to share licensure and adverse action information between states and enforce discipline across state lines.
Corrected formatting errors, capitalization, and spacing in the bill text and section headers.