SB 715 Summary

• Clarifies and expands definitions for speech-language pathologists, audiologists, assistants, and clinical fellows to include prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of speech, language, cognitive communication, swallowing, and hearing/balance disorders

• Requires audiologists applying after December 31, 2006 to hold a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.), Doctor of Philosophy with emphasis in audiology (Ph.D.), or equivalent degree with three years of didactic coursework and clinical education

• Authorizes the Board to issue temporary licenses upon verification that applicants meet licensure requirements, valid until Board approval of permanent license or ten (10) calendar days after denial

• Redesignates speech-language pathology interns as "clinical fellows" and specifies they must meet all requirements of Section 1605 and possess a Board-issued license while completing supervised postgraduate professional experience in Oklahoma

• Expands disciplinary grounds to include conviction of felony crimes substantially related to business practices or posing reasonable threat to public safety or involving moral turpitude, with definitions of "substantially relates" and "poses a reasonable threat"