HB441 Summary

• Creates licensure pathway for speech-language pathology assistants in Alabama by adding Section 34-28A-21.1 to the Alabama Code, requiring applicants to work under supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist.

• Establishes two educational qualification options: a bachelor's degree in speech and hearing sciences or communication disorders, or an associate degree with minimum 30 semester credit hours including 3 hours in language disorders and 3 hours in speech disorders.

• Requires associates degree holders to complete minimum 100 clinical practicum hours under supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist in any clinical setting.

• Restricts associates degree holders to providing services only in educational, private practice, nonresidential health care, early intervention, and nonhospital settings.

• Limits supervising speech-language pathologists to those with at least 2 years of full, unrestricted licensure, with maximum supervision of 3 full-time equivalent assistants per setting; permits unlimited annual license renewals.

• Effective date: January 1, 2026.