HF 2038 Summary

• Establishes federal compliance framework for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids by defining them as air-conduction devices for adults 18+ with mild to moderate hearing loss that allow user self-adjustment without professional prescription or supervision.

• Distinguishes between "prescription hearing aids" (requiring certification from a licensed dispenser or audiologist) and "OTC hearing aids" (sold directly to consumers) throughout Minnesota statutes.

• Exempts audiologists from holding out as "licensed prescription hearing aid dispensers" and updates examination requirements for hearing aid dispensers under federal standards.

• Updates consumer protection requirements including 45-calendar-day money-back guarantees, written contracts in plain English, consumer rights disclosures, and $250 maximum cancellation fees for prescription hearing aids.

• Modifies the Prescription Hearing Instrument Aid Dispenser Advisory Council composition to clarify roles of dispensers, audiologists, and consumer representatives in oversight and certification standards.