Academy Files Rulemaking Petition in Virginia: Public Comment Period Open

Earlier last year, the Virginia Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology finalized regulatory changes intended to streamline licensure by removing direct ties between certification and licensure. These proposed rules removed ABA language from the regulations, for which the Academy submitted comments in opposition.  However, the rule was fast-tracked and passed as written.

After the rule was adopted, the Academy met with the Virginia board staff to understand the scope and intent of the changes. Based on discussions, the Academy formally submitted in December a petition for rulemaking to restore the ABA language.  This petition requests that ABA certification be reinstated in the regulations to ensure fairness, clarity, and consistency for audiologists seeking licensure in Virginia.

The Academy anticipates that the board will open a public comment period in the coming weeks as part of this rulemaking process. When the comment period opens, the Academy will encourage members to submit comments in support of restoring the ABA language.

The Academy will continue to keep members informed and advocate for fair, consistent licensure standards that accurately reflect the profession of audiology. We urge members to be vigilant of regulatory changes in their states that could inhibit flexibility and to reach out to the Academy.

Update: Public Comment Period Now Open

The petition for rulemaking has now been published, and the public comment period officially opened on January 12, 2026. Comments will be accepted through February 11, 2026. After the close of the comment period, the Board will review the petition and all submitted comments at its next scheduled meeting, currently set for April 21, 2026. The Academy strongly encourages members to submit comments in support of restoring the ABA language during the open comment period. Member engagement will be critical as the Board considers next steps.

Please review the proposed rule-making and submit comments here.