Senate Bill 2172 Summary

• Creates a new licensing category for speech-language pathology assistants in North Dakota, requiring at least a bachelor's degree in speech-language pathology or communication disorders and board licensure.

• Speech-language pathology assistants must work under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist who determines which specific tasks may be delegated based on assessment of the assistant's training and skills.

• Modifies the State Board of Examiners on Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology composition to ensure a speech-language pathologist serves on the quorum when reviewing speech-language pathology assistant license applications.

• Updates definitions and terminology throughout North Dakota Century Code Chapter 43-37 to include speech-language pathology assistants in licensure and disciplinary provisions alongside audiologists and speech-language pathologists.

• Effective date: January 1, 2018; passed with 45-0 Senate vote and 91-0 House vote.