RI H7922

Repeals Chapter 5-48 of the General Laws ("Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology") in its entirety, consolidating all provisions into Chapter 5-48.2 ("Professional Licensing and Regulation of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists")

Establishes a five-member Board of Examiners within the Department of Health, consisting of two speech-language pathologists, one audiologist, one otolaryngologist, and one consumer representative, all serving three-year terms

Requires speech-language pathologists to hold a master's or doctoral degree from a CAA-accredited program, pass a national examination, and obtain ASHA certification; audiologists must hold an earned doctorate degree (since January 1, 2008) and complete 12 months of supervised practicum experience

Creates licensing requirements for speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs), who must complete specific educational requirements and 100 supervised clinical hours, and defines their permitted scope of practice and prohibited activities

Requires 20 hours of continuing education every two years for license renewal, with 30 hours required for those holding dual licensure in both speech-language pathology and audiology