Academy Weighs in on Kentucky Legislation

The Academy submitted letters of support for two bills currently pending in the Kentucky legislature.

• H.B. 217 that would remove the requirement of second licensure for audiologists to sell or fit hearing instruments. Most states currently allow audiologists to dispense hearing aids and hearing assistive technology under a single audiology license in recognition that the education and training of audiologists ensures consumer protection in the evaluation, selection, fitting, selling, and provision of counseling and follow-up care. Dual licensure adds no benefit or added protection to the consumer, who may be confused as to which licensure board to contact with concerns or questions.
• H.B. 218 would advance the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC). The ASLP-IC is an occupational licensure compact that will enable states to meet increasing demands for audiology and speech-language pathology services while maintaining appropriate oversight necessary for consumer protection. Consumers can benefit from access to services achieved through a process that allows qualified providers to obtain licensing quickly upon relocation or across multiple states. The Academy supports the adoption of the ASLP-IC in all states to facilitate expanded patient access to these critical services while enhancing consumer protection.
• American Academy of Audiology Support for H.B. 217 (PDF)
• American Academy of Audiology Support for H.B. 218 (PDF)