LA HB442

Amends Louisiana audiology and speech-language pathology licensing law (R.S. 37:2651 et seq.) to update definitions and expand the scope of practice for audiologists, including cerumen management and speech/language screening capabilities

Adds new definitions for "ABA" (American Board of Audiology), "ASHA" (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association), "over-the-counter hearing aid," "prescription hearing aid," "personal sound amplification product," and "telehealth/telepractice"

Establishes that telehealth delivery of speech-language pathology or audiology services requires Louisiana licensure for in-state practitioners and telehealth registration for out-of-state practitioners

Removes extensive prior requirements for audiologists dispensing hearing aids (including specific coursework hours, practicum hours, and postgraduate experience requirements) and simplifies the registration process

Allows the board to waive clinical practicum requirements for applicants holding ABA certification who have completed the national examination, and removes the previous restriction limiting attorney fee recovery in disciplinary restitution orders