AN ACT to amend and reenact subsection 2 of section 43-37-02 and sections 43-37-04 and 43-37-13 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to licensure requirements of a speech-language pathology licensed assistant, temporary licensure, and investigation of an alleged violation.
What changed between versions
Added a formal definition of 'audiology' to clarify the scope of practice and professional standards.
Modified eligibility requirements for speech-language pathology assistants to include a transitional option: those with a two-year degree in a speech-language pathology assistants program may now qualify, provided they complete coursework in communication disorders, phonetics, speech sound disorders, language development, language disorders, and anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing mechanisms.
Added a new requirement for temporary license applicants to show proof of active licensure within the past five years in the state or another jurisdiction.
Modified the clinical experience requirement for speech-language pathology assistants from 'at least one hundred hours' to 'at least one hundred hours of supervised clinical experience or fieldwork' with additional educational pathways specified.
Added a deadline requiring a certificate of completion for speech-language pathology paraprofessionals issued by the superintendent of public instruction prior to August 1, 2026, as one pathway for licensure eligibility.