Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2019 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 780Introduced by Assembly Member BroughFebruary 19, 2019An act to amend Section 5003 of the Business and Professions Code, relating to professions and vocations. An act to amend Sections 2538.10, 2538.11, and 2538.30 of, and to add Section 2538.58 to, the Business and Professions Code, relating to healing arts.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 780, as amended, Brough. Accountants. Hearing aid dispensers: apprentice license.Existing law, the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers Licensure Act, provides for the licensure and regulation of hearing aid dispensers by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board within the Department of Consumer Affairs. A violation of the act is a crime. Existing law defines the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids for purposes of the licensure provisions, requires any audiometer or other equipment used to be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, prohibits a hearing aid dispenser to conduct diagnostic hearing tests, and specifies the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of these provisions.This bill would delete the provisions requiring audiometer or other equipment to be properly calibrated and in good working condition, would delete the provision prohibiting a hearing aid dispenser from conducting diagnostic hearing tests, and would delete the provision specifying the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of those provisions. The bill would include within the definition of the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids tympanometry, as defined in the bill, for patients 18 years of age and older. The bill would authorize a licensed hearing aid dispenser to sit for an examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry and would require the board to apply a course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirements.Existing law provides for a trainee license to be issued by the board for a period of 6 months, subject to satisfaction of specified requirements, authorizes a trainee licensee to fit or sell hearing aids under the supervision of a licensed hearing aid dispenser, and authorizes a trainee to take the hearing aid dispensers licensure examination, subject to compliance with specified requirements. This bill would also provide for the issuance of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to applicants who satisfy specified requirements, including submitting to the board a written statement by a licensed hearing aid dispenser that the licensee agrees to act as the applicants apprentice sponsor, as specified, and payment of a fee established by the board. The bill would establish that the duration of the apprenticeship is 18 months and would establish requirements for an apprentice to sit for the practical examination required for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser, including completion of a specified course and at least 12 months of directly supervised practicum training. The bill would require the board, by regulation, to establish a list of approved courses for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser training program, as specified.Because a violation of the bills requirements would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Existing law establishes the California Board of Accountancy in the Department of Consumer Affairs for the purpose of licensing and regulating the practice of accountancy and provides that the officers of the board are a president, vice president, and a secretary-treasurer.This bill would make a nonsubstantive change to the provision regarding the officers of the board.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: NOYES Local Program: NOYES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(1) The Legislature recognizes that the dispensing of hearing aids requires specific knowledge and skill to ensure that the interests and needs of people with hearing loss will be served in a safe manner by persons who are qualified.(2) The Legislature recognizes that appropriately selected hearing aids improve quality of life, decrease social isolation, and promote the public health.(3) In order to meet these goals, the Legislature recommends that licensed hearing aid dispensers should be able to engage in duties that are of benefit to their patients, cut down on costs, and facilitate the improved hearing of their patients, and that restrictions on the dispensing of hearing aids shall be imposed only to the extent necessary to protect the public from physical and economic harm, and restrictions shall not be imposed in a manner which would unreasonably affect the competitive market or impede accessibility for people with hearing loss to all qualified licensed providers.(4) There are currently over 1,100 licensed hearing aid dispensers in the State of California, who must pass a rigorous written and practical exam to obtain a license to practice in the state. Given that there is no formal course of education to become a hearing aid dispenser in California, many hearing aid dispensers acquire a trainee license and receive on the job training from licensed hearing aid dispensers. It is the intent of the Legislature to acknowledge the existing apprenticeship framework approved by the International Hearing Society as a basis for establishing an alternate pathway for licensure.(5) Licensed hearing aid dispensers are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education annually, with all courses approved by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board.(6) Beyond Californias licensing standards, many hearing aid dispensers obtain additional accreditation, known as the Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist designation, which requires a separate examination and course study that advances the hearing aid dispensers knowledge and skills.(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to allow licensed hearing aid dispensers to practice at the highest levels of their training in order to better serve their clients and to provide the board with enforceable statutory provisions to protect the public.SEC. 2. Section 2538.10 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.10. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:(a) Advertise and its variants include the use of a newspaper, magazine, or other publication, book, notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, handbill, poster, bill, sign, placard, card, label, tag, window display, store sign, radio, or television announcement, or any other means or methods now or hereafter employed to bring to the attention of the public the practice of fitting or selling of hearing aids.(b) License means a hearing aid dispensers license issued pursuant to this article and includes a temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice license.(c) Licensee means a person holding a license.(d) Hearing aid means any wearable instrument or device designed for, or offered for the purpose of, aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing.(e) Fund means the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Fund.SEC. 3. Section 2538.11 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.11. (a) (1) Practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, as used in this article, means those practices used for the purpose of selection and adaptation of hearing aids, including direct observation of the ear, testing of hearing in connection with the fitting and selling of hearing aids, taking of ear mold impressions, fitting or sale of hearing aids, and any necessary postfitting counseling. The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids may include tympanometry for patients 18 years of age and older.The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids does not include the act of concluding the transaction by a retail clerk.When any audiometer or other equipment is used in the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, it shall be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, and the calibration of the audiometer or other equipment shall be checked at least annually.(b)A hearing aid dispenser shall not conduct diagnostic hearing tests when conducting tests in connection with the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids.(c)Hearing tests conducted pursuant to this article shall include those that are in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines for Hearing Aid Devices and those that are specifically covered in the licensing examination prepared and administered by the board.(2) For the purposes of this section, tympanometry means the administration of the test for the sole purposes of fitting and maintaining hearing aids or referring a patient to a specialist physician and surgeon.(b) (1) A licensed hearing aid dispenser who has passed the examinations described in Section 2538.25 is eligible to sit for a board-approved examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry. The examination approved by the board shall be sufficient to demonstrate proficiency in tympanometry and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this technique safely.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the board shall apply a board-approved course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirement described in Section 2538.18. In order to be board approved, the course shall cover the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform tympanometry safely.SEC. 4. Section 2538.30 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.30. (a) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not be the sole proprietor of, manage, or independently operate a business which engages in the fitting or sale of hearing aids.(b) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not advertise or otherwise represent that he or she the person holds a license as a hearing aid dispenser.SEC. 5. Section 2538.58 is added to the Business and Professions Code, to read:2538.58. (a) As an alternative to the trainee license described in Section 2538.28, this section establishes requirements for licensure as an apprentice hearing aid dispenser. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser license authorizes the licenseholder to engage in the practice of dispensing hearing aids under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor in accordance with this section.(b) An apprentice sponsor is a licensed hearing aid dispenser who has held a valid hearing aid dispensers license issued by the board for at least three years and has agreed to act as an apprentice sponsor to the applicant. An apprentice sponsor shall be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the apprentice, and shall be responsible for services provided to a client by the apprentice hearing aid dispenser.(c) The board shall issue an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:(1) The applicant has filed a completed application form and paid the apprentice licensee fee, as established by the board by regulation. The regulatory fee shall be in an amount no greater than the reasonable cost to the board to administer this section and shall be deposited into the fund.(2) The applicant has met all academic qualifications for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser.(3) The applicant has a signed statement from a person licensed as a hearing aid dispenser that the person will act as the applicants apprentice sponsor for the duration of the apprentices training in accordance with this section.(d) The duration of the apprenticeship shall begin on the date the board issues an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license and expires 18 months thereafter. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall maintain a valid apprentice license during the duration of the apprenticeship.(e) The training of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be performed under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor approved by the board.(f) The board shall, by regulation, establish a list of approved courses for purposes of the training program for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser that includes a minimum number of hours of coursework that is appropriate for the experience and functions necessary for an apprentice that is consistent with Section 2531.02.(g) An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be required to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum contact hours of inpatient care, as determined by the board, including a minimum of directly supervised hours, to sit for the written and practical examinations required pursuant to Section 2538.25.(h) In order to be eligible to sit for the practical examination specified in Section 2538.31, an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall do the following:(1) Successfully complete the International Hearing Societys Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course or another comparable course approved by the board.(2) Successfully complete the directly supervised practicum training for at least 12 months in accordance with this section.(i) Upon successful completion of the practical examination required pursuant to Section 2538.31, the apprentice shall complete the remainder of the apprenticeship under the indirect supervision of the apprentice sponsor.(j) An apprentice sponsor shall not supervise more than three apprentices at one time.(k) An apprentice sponsor shall submit a written notification of termination of sponsorship to the board and the apprentice licenseholder within 10 working days of cessation of sponsorship.(l) The apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall give written notice to the board of a change in sponsorship within 10 working days of the change in sponsorship.SEC. 6. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.SECTION 1.Section 5003 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:5003.The officers of the board are a president, vice president, and a secretary-treasurer.
Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2019 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 780Introduced by Assembly Member BroughFebruary 19, 2019An act to amend Section 5003 of the Business and Professions Code, relating to professions and vocations. An act to amend Sections 2538.10, 2538.11, and 2538.30 of, and to add Section 2538.58 to, the Business and Professions Code, relating to healing arts.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 780, as amended, Brough. Accountants. Hearing aid dispensers: apprentice license.Existing law, the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers Licensure Act, provides for the licensure and regulation of hearing aid dispensers by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board within the Department of Consumer Affairs. A violation of the act is a crime. Existing law defines the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids for purposes of the licensure provisions, requires any audiometer or other equipment used to be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, prohibits a hearing aid dispenser to conduct diagnostic hearing tests, and specifies the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of these provisions.This bill would delete the provisions requiring audiometer or other equipment to be properly calibrated and in good working condition, would delete the provision prohibiting a hearing aid dispenser from conducting diagnostic hearing tests, and would delete the provision specifying the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of those provisions. The bill would include within the definition of the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids tympanometry, as defined in the bill, for patients 18 years of age and older. The bill would authorize a licensed hearing aid dispenser to sit for an examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry and would require the board to apply a course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirements.Existing law provides for a trainee license to be issued by the board for a period of 6 months, subject to satisfaction of specified requirements, authorizes a trainee licensee to fit or sell hearing aids under the supervision of a licensed hearing aid dispenser, and authorizes a trainee to take the hearing aid dispensers licensure examination, subject to compliance with specified requirements. This bill would also provide for the issuance of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to applicants who satisfy specified requirements, including submitting to the board a written statement by a licensed hearing aid dispenser that the licensee agrees to act as the applicants apprentice sponsor, as specified, and payment of a fee established by the board. The bill would establish that the duration of the apprenticeship is 18 months and would establish requirements for an apprentice to sit for the practical examination required for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser, including completion of a specified course and at least 12 months of directly supervised practicum training. The bill would require the board, by regulation, to establish a list of approved courses for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser training program, as specified.Because a violation of the bills requirements would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Existing law establishes the California Board of Accountancy in the Department of Consumer Affairs for the purpose of licensing and regulating the practice of accountancy and provides that the officers of the board are a president, vice president, and a secretary-treasurer.This bill would make a nonsubstantive change to the provision regarding the officers of the board.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: NOYES Local Program: NOYES
Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2019
Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2019
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION
Assembly Bill No. 780
Introduced by Assembly Member BroughFebruary 19, 2019
Introduced by Assembly Member Brough
February 19, 2019
An act to amend Section 5003 of the Business and Professions Code, relating to professions and vocations. An act to amend Sections 2538.10, 2538.11, and 2538.30 of, and to add Section 2538.58 to, the Business and Professions Code, relating to healing arts.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
AB 780, as amended, Brough. Accountants. Hearing aid dispensers: apprentice license.
Existing law, the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers Licensure Act, provides for the licensure and regulation of hearing aid dispensers by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board within the Department of Consumer Affairs. A violation of the act is a crime. Existing law defines the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids for purposes of the licensure provisions, requires any audiometer or other equipment used to be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, prohibits a hearing aid dispenser to conduct diagnostic hearing tests, and specifies the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of these provisions.This bill would delete the provisions requiring audiometer or other equipment to be properly calibrated and in good working condition, would delete the provision prohibiting a hearing aid dispenser from conducting diagnostic hearing tests, and would delete the provision specifying the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of those provisions. The bill would include within the definition of the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids tympanometry, as defined in the bill, for patients 18 years of age and older. The bill would authorize a licensed hearing aid dispenser to sit for an examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry and would require the board to apply a course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirements.Existing law provides for a trainee license to be issued by the board for a period of 6 months, subject to satisfaction of specified requirements, authorizes a trainee licensee to fit or sell hearing aids under the supervision of a licensed hearing aid dispenser, and authorizes a trainee to take the hearing aid dispensers licensure examination, subject to compliance with specified requirements. This bill would also provide for the issuance of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to applicants who satisfy specified requirements, including submitting to the board a written statement by a licensed hearing aid dispenser that the licensee agrees to act as the applicants apprentice sponsor, as specified, and payment of a fee established by the board. The bill would establish that the duration of the apprenticeship is 18 months and would establish requirements for an apprentice to sit for the practical examination required for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser, including completion of a specified course and at least 12 months of directly supervised practicum training. The bill would require the board, by regulation, to establish a list of approved courses for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser training program, as specified.Because a violation of the bills requirements would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Existing law establishes the California Board of Accountancy in the Department of Consumer Affairs for the purpose of licensing and regulating the practice of accountancy and provides that the officers of the board are a president, vice president, and a secretary-treasurer.This bill would make a nonsubstantive change to the provision regarding the officers of the board.
Existing law, the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers Licensure Act, provides for the licensure and regulation of hearing aid dispensers by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board within the Department of Consumer Affairs. A violation of the act is a crime. Existing law defines the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids for purposes of the licensure provisions, requires any audiometer or other equipment used to be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, prohibits a hearing aid dispenser to conduct diagnostic hearing tests, and specifies the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of these provisions.
This bill would delete the provisions requiring audiometer or other equipment to be properly calibrated and in good working condition, would delete the provision prohibiting a hearing aid dispenser from conducting diagnostic hearing tests, and would delete the provision specifying the types of hearing tests conducted for purposes of those provisions. The bill would include within the definition of the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids tympanometry, as defined in the bill, for patients 18 years of age and older. The bill would authorize a licensed hearing aid dispenser to sit for an examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry and would require the board to apply a course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirements.
Existing law provides for a trainee license to be issued by the board for a period of 6 months, subject to satisfaction of specified requirements, authorizes a trainee licensee to fit or sell hearing aids under the supervision of a licensed hearing aid dispenser, and authorizes a trainee to take the hearing aid dispensers licensure examination, subject to compliance with specified requirements.
This bill would also provide for the issuance of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to applicants who satisfy specified requirements, including submitting to the board a written statement by a licensed hearing aid dispenser that the licensee agrees to act as the applicants apprentice sponsor, as specified, and payment of a fee established by the board. The bill would establish that the duration of the apprenticeship is 18 months and would establish requirements for an apprentice to sit for the practical examination required for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser, including completion of a specified course and at least 12 months of directly supervised practicum training. The bill would require the board, by regulation, to establish a list of approved courses for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser training program, as specified.
Because a violation of the bills requirements would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
Existing law establishes the California Board of Accountancy in the Department of Consumer Affairs for the purpose of licensing and regulating the practice of accountancy and provides that the officers of the board are a president, vice president, and a secretary-treasurer.
This bill would make a nonsubstantive change to the provision regarding the officers of the board.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(1) The Legislature recognizes that the dispensing of hearing aids requires specific knowledge and skill to ensure that the interests and needs of people with hearing loss will be served in a safe manner by persons who are qualified.(2) The Legislature recognizes that appropriately selected hearing aids improve quality of life, decrease social isolation, and promote the public health.(3) In order to meet these goals, the Legislature recommends that licensed hearing aid dispensers should be able to engage in duties that are of benefit to their patients, cut down on costs, and facilitate the improved hearing of their patients, and that restrictions on the dispensing of hearing aids shall be imposed only to the extent necessary to protect the public from physical and economic harm, and restrictions shall not be imposed in a manner which would unreasonably affect the competitive market or impede accessibility for people with hearing loss to all qualified licensed providers.(4) There are currently over 1,100 licensed hearing aid dispensers in the State of California, who must pass a rigorous written and practical exam to obtain a license to practice in the state. Given that there is no formal course of education to become a hearing aid dispenser in California, many hearing aid dispensers acquire a trainee license and receive on the job training from licensed hearing aid dispensers. It is the intent of the Legislature to acknowledge the existing apprenticeship framework approved by the International Hearing Society as a basis for establishing an alternate pathway for licensure.(5) Licensed hearing aid dispensers are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education annually, with all courses approved by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board.(6) Beyond Californias licensing standards, many hearing aid dispensers obtain additional accreditation, known as the Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist designation, which requires a separate examination and course study that advances the hearing aid dispensers knowledge and skills.(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to allow licensed hearing aid dispensers to practice at the highest levels of their training in order to better serve their clients and to provide the board with enforceable statutory provisions to protect the public.SEC. 2. Section 2538.10 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.10. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:(a) Advertise and its variants include the use of a newspaper, magazine, or other publication, book, notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, handbill, poster, bill, sign, placard, card, label, tag, window display, store sign, radio, or television announcement, or any other means or methods now or hereafter employed to bring to the attention of the public the practice of fitting or selling of hearing aids.(b) License means a hearing aid dispensers license issued pursuant to this article and includes a temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice license.(c) Licensee means a person holding a license.(d) Hearing aid means any wearable instrument or device designed for, or offered for the purpose of, aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing.(e) Fund means the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Fund.SEC. 3. Section 2538.11 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.11. (a) (1) Practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, as used in this article, means those practices used for the purpose of selection and adaptation of hearing aids, including direct observation of the ear, testing of hearing in connection with the fitting and selling of hearing aids, taking of ear mold impressions, fitting or sale of hearing aids, and any necessary postfitting counseling. The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids may include tympanometry for patients 18 years of age and older.The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids does not include the act of concluding the transaction by a retail clerk.When any audiometer or other equipment is used in the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, it shall be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, and the calibration of the audiometer or other equipment shall be checked at least annually.(b)A hearing aid dispenser shall not conduct diagnostic hearing tests when conducting tests in connection with the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids.(c)Hearing tests conducted pursuant to this article shall include those that are in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines for Hearing Aid Devices and those that are specifically covered in the licensing examination prepared and administered by the board.(2) For the purposes of this section, tympanometry means the administration of the test for the sole purposes of fitting and maintaining hearing aids or referring a patient to a specialist physician and surgeon.(b) (1) A licensed hearing aid dispenser who has passed the examinations described in Section 2538.25 is eligible to sit for a board-approved examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry. The examination approved by the board shall be sufficient to demonstrate proficiency in tympanometry and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this technique safely.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the board shall apply a board-approved course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirement described in Section 2538.18. In order to be board approved, the course shall cover the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform tympanometry safely.SEC. 4. Section 2538.30 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.30. (a) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not be the sole proprietor of, manage, or independently operate a business which engages in the fitting or sale of hearing aids.(b) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not advertise or otherwise represent that he or she the person holds a license as a hearing aid dispenser.SEC. 5. Section 2538.58 is added to the Business and Professions Code, to read:2538.58. (a) As an alternative to the trainee license described in Section 2538.28, this section establishes requirements for licensure as an apprentice hearing aid dispenser. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser license authorizes the licenseholder to engage in the practice of dispensing hearing aids under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor in accordance with this section.(b) An apprentice sponsor is a licensed hearing aid dispenser who has held a valid hearing aid dispensers license issued by the board for at least three years and has agreed to act as an apprentice sponsor to the applicant. An apprentice sponsor shall be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the apprentice, and shall be responsible for services provided to a client by the apprentice hearing aid dispenser.(c) The board shall issue an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:(1) The applicant has filed a completed application form and paid the apprentice licensee fee, as established by the board by regulation. The regulatory fee shall be in an amount no greater than the reasonable cost to the board to administer this section and shall be deposited into the fund.(2) The applicant has met all academic qualifications for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser.(3) The applicant has a signed statement from a person licensed as a hearing aid dispenser that the person will act as the applicants apprentice sponsor for the duration of the apprentices training in accordance with this section.(d) The duration of the apprenticeship shall begin on the date the board issues an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license and expires 18 months thereafter. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall maintain a valid apprentice license during the duration of the apprenticeship.(e) The training of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be performed under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor approved by the board.(f) The board shall, by regulation, establish a list of approved courses for purposes of the training program for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser that includes a minimum number of hours of coursework that is appropriate for the experience and functions necessary for an apprentice that is consistent with Section 2531.02.(g) An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be required to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum contact hours of inpatient care, as determined by the board, including a minimum of directly supervised hours, to sit for the written and practical examinations required pursuant to Section 2538.25.(h) In order to be eligible to sit for the practical examination specified in Section 2538.31, an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall do the following:(1) Successfully complete the International Hearing Societys Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course or another comparable course approved by the board.(2) Successfully complete the directly supervised practicum training for at least 12 months in accordance with this section.(i) Upon successful completion of the practical examination required pursuant to Section 2538.31, the apprentice shall complete the remainder of the apprenticeship under the indirect supervision of the apprentice sponsor.(j) An apprentice sponsor shall not supervise more than three apprentices at one time.(k) An apprentice sponsor shall submit a written notification of termination of sponsorship to the board and the apprentice licenseholder within 10 working days of cessation of sponsorship.(l) The apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall give written notice to the board of a change in sponsorship within 10 working days of the change in sponsorship.SEC. 6. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.SECTION 1.Section 5003 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:5003.The officers of the board are a president, vice president, and a secretary-treasurer.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(1) The Legislature recognizes that the dispensing of hearing aids requires specific knowledge and skill to ensure that the interests and needs of people with hearing loss will be served in a safe manner by persons who are qualified.(2) The Legislature recognizes that appropriately selected hearing aids improve quality of life, decrease social isolation, and promote the public health.(3) In order to meet these goals, the Legislature recommends that licensed hearing aid dispensers should be able to engage in duties that are of benefit to their patients, cut down on costs, and facilitate the improved hearing of their patients, and that restrictions on the dispensing of hearing aids shall be imposed only to the extent necessary to protect the public from physical and economic harm, and restrictions shall not be imposed in a manner which would unreasonably affect the competitive market or impede accessibility for people with hearing loss to all qualified licensed providers.(4) There are currently over 1,100 licensed hearing aid dispensers in the State of California, who must pass a rigorous written and practical exam to obtain a license to practice in the state. Given that there is no formal course of education to become a hearing aid dispenser in California, many hearing aid dispensers acquire a trainee license and receive on the job training from licensed hearing aid dispensers. It is the intent of the Legislature to acknowledge the existing apprenticeship framework approved by the International Hearing Society as a basis for establishing an alternate pathway for licensure.(5) Licensed hearing aid dispensers are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education annually, with all courses approved by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board.(6) Beyond Californias licensing standards, many hearing aid dispensers obtain additional accreditation, known as the Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist designation, which requires a separate examination and course study that advances the hearing aid dispensers knowledge and skills.(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to allow licensed hearing aid dispensers to practice at the highest levels of their training in order to better serve their clients and to provide the board with enforceable statutory provisions to protect the public.
SECTION 1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(1) The Legislature recognizes that the dispensing of hearing aids requires specific knowledge and skill to ensure that the interests and needs of people with hearing loss will be served in a safe manner by persons who are qualified.(2) The Legislature recognizes that appropriately selected hearing aids improve quality of life, decrease social isolation, and promote the public health.(3) In order to meet these goals, the Legislature recommends that licensed hearing aid dispensers should be able to engage in duties that are of benefit to their patients, cut down on costs, and facilitate the improved hearing of their patients, and that restrictions on the dispensing of hearing aids shall be imposed only to the extent necessary to protect the public from physical and economic harm, and restrictions shall not be imposed in a manner which would unreasonably affect the competitive market or impede accessibility for people with hearing loss to all qualified licensed providers.(4) There are currently over 1,100 licensed hearing aid dispensers in the State of California, who must pass a rigorous written and practical exam to obtain a license to practice in the state. Given that there is no formal course of education to become a hearing aid dispenser in California, many hearing aid dispensers acquire a trainee license and receive on the job training from licensed hearing aid dispensers. It is the intent of the Legislature to acknowledge the existing apprenticeship framework approved by the International Hearing Society as a basis for establishing an alternate pathway for licensure.(5) Licensed hearing aid dispensers are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education annually, with all courses approved by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board.(6) Beyond Californias licensing standards, many hearing aid dispensers obtain additional accreditation, known as the Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist designation, which requires a separate examination and course study that advances the hearing aid dispensers knowledge and skills.(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to allow licensed hearing aid dispensers to practice at the highest levels of their training in order to better serve their clients and to provide the board with enforceable statutory provisions to protect the public.
SECTION 1. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
### SECTION 1.
(1) The Legislature recognizes that the dispensing of hearing aids requires specific knowledge and skill to ensure that the interests and needs of people with hearing loss will be served in a safe manner by persons who are qualified.
(2) The Legislature recognizes that appropriately selected hearing aids improve quality of life, decrease social isolation, and promote the public health.
(3) In order to meet these goals, the Legislature recommends that licensed hearing aid dispensers should be able to engage in duties that are of benefit to their patients, cut down on costs, and facilitate the improved hearing of their patients, and that restrictions on the dispensing of hearing aids shall be imposed only to the extent necessary to protect the public from physical and economic harm, and restrictions shall not be imposed in a manner which would unreasonably affect the competitive market or impede accessibility for people with hearing loss to all qualified licensed providers.
(4) There are currently over 1,100 licensed hearing aid dispensers in the State of California, who must pass a rigorous written and practical exam to obtain a license to practice in the state. Given that there is no formal course of education to become a hearing aid dispenser in California, many hearing aid dispensers acquire a trainee license and receive on the job training from licensed hearing aid dispensers. It is the intent of the Legislature to acknowledge the existing apprenticeship framework approved by the International Hearing Society as a basis for establishing an alternate pathway for licensure.
(5) Licensed hearing aid dispensers are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education annually, with all courses approved by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board.
(6) Beyond Californias licensing standards, many hearing aid dispensers obtain additional accreditation, known as the Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist designation, which requires a separate examination and course study that advances the hearing aid dispensers knowledge and skills.
(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to allow licensed hearing aid dispensers to practice at the highest levels of their training in order to better serve their clients and to provide the board with enforceable statutory provisions to protect the public.
SEC. 2. Section 2538.10 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.10. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:(a) Advertise and its variants include the use of a newspaper, magazine, or other publication, book, notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, handbill, poster, bill, sign, placard, card, label, tag, window display, store sign, radio, or television announcement, or any other means or methods now or hereafter employed to bring to the attention of the public the practice of fitting or selling of hearing aids.(b) License means a hearing aid dispensers license issued pursuant to this article and includes a temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice license.(c) Licensee means a person holding a license.(d) Hearing aid means any wearable instrument or device designed for, or offered for the purpose of, aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing.(e) Fund means the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Fund.
SEC. 2. Section 2538.10 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:
### SEC. 2.
2538.10. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:(a) Advertise and its variants include the use of a newspaper, magazine, or other publication, book, notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, handbill, poster, bill, sign, placard, card, label, tag, window display, store sign, radio, or television announcement, or any other means or methods now or hereafter employed to bring to the attention of the public the practice of fitting or selling of hearing aids.(b) License means a hearing aid dispensers license issued pursuant to this article and includes a temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice license.(c) Licensee means a person holding a license.(d) Hearing aid means any wearable instrument or device designed for, or offered for the purpose of, aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing.(e) Fund means the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Fund.
2538.10. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:(a) Advertise and its variants include the use of a newspaper, magazine, or other publication, book, notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, handbill, poster, bill, sign, placard, card, label, tag, window display, store sign, radio, or television announcement, or any other means or methods now or hereafter employed to bring to the attention of the public the practice of fitting or selling of hearing aids.(b) License means a hearing aid dispensers license issued pursuant to this article and includes a temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice license.(c) Licensee means a person holding a license.(d) Hearing aid means any wearable instrument or device designed for, or offered for the purpose of, aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing.(e) Fund means the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Fund.
2538.10. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:(a) Advertise and its variants include the use of a newspaper, magazine, or other publication, book, notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, handbill, poster, bill, sign, placard, card, label, tag, window display, store sign, radio, or television announcement, or any other means or methods now or hereafter employed to bring to the attention of the public the practice of fitting or selling of hearing aids.(b) License means a hearing aid dispensers license issued pursuant to this article and includes a temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice license.(c) Licensee means a person holding a license.(d) Hearing aid means any wearable instrument or device designed for, or offered for the purpose of, aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing.(e) Fund means the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Fund.
2538.10. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) Advertise and its variants include the use of a newspaper, magazine, or other publication, book, notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, handbill, poster, bill, sign, placard, card, label, tag, window display, store sign, radio, or television announcement, or any other means or methods now or hereafter employed to bring to the attention of the public the practice of fitting or selling of hearing aids.
(b) License means a hearing aid dispensers license issued pursuant to this article and includes a temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice license.
(c) Licensee means a person holding a license.
(d) Hearing aid means any wearable instrument or device designed for, or offered for the purpose of, aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing.
(e) Fund means the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Fund.
SEC. 3. Section 2538.11 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.11. (a) (1) Practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, as used in this article, means those practices used for the purpose of selection and adaptation of hearing aids, including direct observation of the ear, testing of hearing in connection with the fitting and selling of hearing aids, taking of ear mold impressions, fitting or sale of hearing aids, and any necessary postfitting counseling. The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids may include tympanometry for patients 18 years of age and older.The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids does not include the act of concluding the transaction by a retail clerk.When any audiometer or other equipment is used in the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, it shall be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, and the calibration of the audiometer or other equipment shall be checked at least annually.(b)A hearing aid dispenser shall not conduct diagnostic hearing tests when conducting tests in connection with the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids.(c)Hearing tests conducted pursuant to this article shall include those that are in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines for Hearing Aid Devices and those that are specifically covered in the licensing examination prepared and administered by the board.(2) For the purposes of this section, tympanometry means the administration of the test for the sole purposes of fitting and maintaining hearing aids or referring a patient to a specialist physician and surgeon.(b) (1) A licensed hearing aid dispenser who has passed the examinations described in Section 2538.25 is eligible to sit for a board-approved examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry. The examination approved by the board shall be sufficient to demonstrate proficiency in tympanometry and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this technique safely.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the board shall apply a board-approved course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirement described in Section 2538.18. In order to be board approved, the course shall cover the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform tympanometry safely.
SEC. 3. Section 2538.11 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:
### SEC. 3.
2538.11. (a) (1) Practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, as used in this article, means those practices used for the purpose of selection and adaptation of hearing aids, including direct observation of the ear, testing of hearing in connection with the fitting and selling of hearing aids, taking of ear mold impressions, fitting or sale of hearing aids, and any necessary postfitting counseling. The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids may include tympanometry for patients 18 years of age and older.The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids does not include the act of concluding the transaction by a retail clerk.When any audiometer or other equipment is used in the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, it shall be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, and the calibration of the audiometer or other equipment shall be checked at least annually.(b)A hearing aid dispenser shall not conduct diagnostic hearing tests when conducting tests in connection with the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids.(c)Hearing tests conducted pursuant to this article shall include those that are in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines for Hearing Aid Devices and those that are specifically covered in the licensing examination prepared and administered by the board.(2) For the purposes of this section, tympanometry means the administration of the test for the sole purposes of fitting and maintaining hearing aids or referring a patient to a specialist physician and surgeon.(b) (1) A licensed hearing aid dispenser who has passed the examinations described in Section 2538.25 is eligible to sit for a board-approved examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry. The examination approved by the board shall be sufficient to demonstrate proficiency in tympanometry and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this technique safely.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the board shall apply a board-approved course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirement described in Section 2538.18. In order to be board approved, the course shall cover the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform tympanometry safely.
2538.11. (a) (1) Practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, as used in this article, means those practices used for the purpose of selection and adaptation of hearing aids, including direct observation of the ear, testing of hearing in connection with the fitting and selling of hearing aids, taking of ear mold impressions, fitting or sale of hearing aids, and any necessary postfitting counseling. The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids may include tympanometry for patients 18 years of age and older.The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids does not include the act of concluding the transaction by a retail clerk.When any audiometer or other equipment is used in the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, it shall be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, and the calibration of the audiometer or other equipment shall be checked at least annually.(b)A hearing aid dispenser shall not conduct diagnostic hearing tests when conducting tests in connection with the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids.(c)Hearing tests conducted pursuant to this article shall include those that are in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines for Hearing Aid Devices and those that are specifically covered in the licensing examination prepared and administered by the board.(2) For the purposes of this section, tympanometry means the administration of the test for the sole purposes of fitting and maintaining hearing aids or referring a patient to a specialist physician and surgeon.(b) (1) A licensed hearing aid dispenser who has passed the examinations described in Section 2538.25 is eligible to sit for a board-approved examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry. The examination approved by the board shall be sufficient to demonstrate proficiency in tympanometry and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this technique safely.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the board shall apply a board-approved course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirement described in Section 2538.18. In order to be board approved, the course shall cover the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform tympanometry safely.
2538.11. (a) (1) Practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, as used in this article, means those practices used for the purpose of selection and adaptation of hearing aids, including direct observation of the ear, testing of hearing in connection with the fitting and selling of hearing aids, taking of ear mold impressions, fitting or sale of hearing aids, and any necessary postfitting counseling. The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids may include tympanometry for patients 18 years of age and older.The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids does not include the act of concluding the transaction by a retail clerk.When any audiometer or other equipment is used in the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, it shall be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, and the calibration of the audiometer or other equipment shall be checked at least annually.(b)A hearing aid dispenser shall not conduct diagnostic hearing tests when conducting tests in connection with the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids.(c)Hearing tests conducted pursuant to this article shall include those that are in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines for Hearing Aid Devices and those that are specifically covered in the licensing examination prepared and administered by the board.(2) For the purposes of this section, tympanometry means the administration of the test for the sole purposes of fitting and maintaining hearing aids or referring a patient to a specialist physician and surgeon.(b) (1) A licensed hearing aid dispenser who has passed the examinations described in Section 2538.25 is eligible to sit for a board-approved examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry. The examination approved by the board shall be sufficient to demonstrate proficiency in tympanometry and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this technique safely.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the board shall apply a board-approved course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirement described in Section 2538.18. In order to be board approved, the course shall cover the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform tympanometry safely.
2538.11. (a) (1) Practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, as used in this article, means those practices used for the purpose of selection and adaptation of hearing aids, including direct observation of the ear, testing of hearing in connection with the fitting and selling of hearing aids, taking of ear mold impressions, fitting or sale of hearing aids, and any necessary postfitting counseling. The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids may include tympanometry for patients 18 years of age and older.
The practice of fitting or selling hearing aids does not include the act of concluding the transaction by a retail clerk.
When any audiometer or other equipment is used in the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids, it shall be kept properly calibrated and in good working condition, and the calibration of the audiometer or other equipment shall be checked at least annually.
(b)A hearing aid dispenser shall not conduct diagnostic hearing tests when conducting tests in connection with the practice of fitting or selling hearing aids.
(c)Hearing tests conducted pursuant to this article shall include those that are in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines for Hearing Aid Devices and those that are specifically covered in the licensing examination prepared and administered by the board.
(2) For the purposes of this section, tympanometry means the administration of the test for the sole purposes of fitting and maintaining hearing aids or referring a patient to a specialist physician and surgeon.
(b) (1) A licensed hearing aid dispenser who has passed the examinations described in Section 2538.25 is eligible to sit for a board-approved examination assessing techniques and patient safety measures in tympanometry. The examination approved by the board shall be sufficient to demonstrate proficiency in tympanometry and the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this technique safely.
(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the board shall apply a board-approved course in tympanometry to the continuing education requirement described in Section 2538.18. In order to be board approved, the course shall cover the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform tympanometry safely.
SEC. 4. Section 2538.30 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:2538.30. (a) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not be the sole proprietor of, manage, or independently operate a business which engages in the fitting or sale of hearing aids.(b) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not advertise or otherwise represent that he or she the person holds a license as a hearing aid dispenser.
SEC. 4. Section 2538.30 of the Business and Professions Code is amended to read:
### SEC. 4.
2538.30. (a) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not be the sole proprietor of, manage, or independently operate a business which engages in the fitting or sale of hearing aids.(b) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not advertise or otherwise represent that he or she the person holds a license as a hearing aid dispenser.
2538.30. (a) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not be the sole proprietor of, manage, or independently operate a business which engages in the fitting or sale of hearing aids.(b) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not advertise or otherwise represent that he or she the person holds a license as a hearing aid dispenser.
2538.30. (a) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not be the sole proprietor of, manage, or independently operate a business which engages in the fitting or sale of hearing aids.(b) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not advertise or otherwise represent that he or she the person holds a license as a hearing aid dispenser.
2538.30. (a) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not be the sole proprietor of, manage, or independently operate a business which engages in the fitting or sale of hearing aids.
(b) A temporary or trainee temporary, trainee, or apprentice licensee shall not advertise or otherwise represent that he or she the person holds a license as a hearing aid dispenser.
SEC. 5. Section 2538.58 is added to the Business and Professions Code, to read:2538.58. (a) As an alternative to the trainee license described in Section 2538.28, this section establishes requirements for licensure as an apprentice hearing aid dispenser. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser license authorizes the licenseholder to engage in the practice of dispensing hearing aids under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor in accordance with this section.(b) An apprentice sponsor is a licensed hearing aid dispenser who has held a valid hearing aid dispensers license issued by the board for at least three years and has agreed to act as an apprentice sponsor to the applicant. An apprentice sponsor shall be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the apprentice, and shall be responsible for services provided to a client by the apprentice hearing aid dispenser.(c) The board shall issue an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:(1) The applicant has filed a completed application form and paid the apprentice licensee fee, as established by the board by regulation. The regulatory fee shall be in an amount no greater than the reasonable cost to the board to administer this section and shall be deposited into the fund.(2) The applicant has met all academic qualifications for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser.(3) The applicant has a signed statement from a person licensed as a hearing aid dispenser that the person will act as the applicants apprentice sponsor for the duration of the apprentices training in accordance with this section.(d) The duration of the apprenticeship shall begin on the date the board issues an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license and expires 18 months thereafter. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall maintain a valid apprentice license during the duration of the apprenticeship.(e) The training of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be performed under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor approved by the board.(f) The board shall, by regulation, establish a list of approved courses for purposes of the training program for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser that includes a minimum number of hours of coursework that is appropriate for the experience and functions necessary for an apprentice that is consistent with Section 2531.02.(g) An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be required to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum contact hours of inpatient care, as determined by the board, including a minimum of directly supervised hours, to sit for the written and practical examinations required pursuant to Section 2538.25.(h) In order to be eligible to sit for the practical examination specified in Section 2538.31, an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall do the following:(1) Successfully complete the International Hearing Societys Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course or another comparable course approved by the board.(2) Successfully complete the directly supervised practicum training for at least 12 months in accordance with this section.(i) Upon successful completion of the practical examination required pursuant to Section 2538.31, the apprentice shall complete the remainder of the apprenticeship under the indirect supervision of the apprentice sponsor.(j) An apprentice sponsor shall not supervise more than three apprentices at one time.(k) An apprentice sponsor shall submit a written notification of termination of sponsorship to the board and the apprentice licenseholder within 10 working days of cessation of sponsorship.(l) The apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall give written notice to the board of a change in sponsorship within 10 working days of the change in sponsorship.
SEC. 5. Section 2538.58 is added to the Business and Professions Code, to read:
### SEC. 5.
2538.58. (a) As an alternative to the trainee license described in Section 2538.28, this section establishes requirements for licensure as an apprentice hearing aid dispenser. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser license authorizes the licenseholder to engage in the practice of dispensing hearing aids under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor in accordance with this section.(b) An apprentice sponsor is a licensed hearing aid dispenser who has held a valid hearing aid dispensers license issued by the board for at least three years and has agreed to act as an apprentice sponsor to the applicant. An apprentice sponsor shall be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the apprentice, and shall be responsible for services provided to a client by the apprentice hearing aid dispenser.(c) The board shall issue an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:(1) The applicant has filed a completed application form and paid the apprentice licensee fee, as established by the board by regulation. The regulatory fee shall be in an amount no greater than the reasonable cost to the board to administer this section and shall be deposited into the fund.(2) The applicant has met all academic qualifications for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser.(3) The applicant has a signed statement from a person licensed as a hearing aid dispenser that the person will act as the applicants apprentice sponsor for the duration of the apprentices training in accordance with this section.(d) The duration of the apprenticeship shall begin on the date the board issues an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license and expires 18 months thereafter. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall maintain a valid apprentice license during the duration of the apprenticeship.(e) The training of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be performed under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor approved by the board.(f) The board shall, by regulation, establish a list of approved courses for purposes of the training program for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser that includes a minimum number of hours of coursework that is appropriate for the experience and functions necessary for an apprentice that is consistent with Section 2531.02.(g) An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be required to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum contact hours of inpatient care, as determined by the board, including a minimum of directly supervised hours, to sit for the written and practical examinations required pursuant to Section 2538.25.(h) In order to be eligible to sit for the practical examination specified in Section 2538.31, an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall do the following:(1) Successfully complete the International Hearing Societys Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course or another comparable course approved by the board.(2) Successfully complete the directly supervised practicum training for at least 12 months in accordance with this section.(i) Upon successful completion of the practical examination required pursuant to Section 2538.31, the apprentice shall complete the remainder of the apprenticeship under the indirect supervision of the apprentice sponsor.(j) An apprentice sponsor shall not supervise more than three apprentices at one time.(k) An apprentice sponsor shall submit a written notification of termination of sponsorship to the board and the apprentice licenseholder within 10 working days of cessation of sponsorship.(l) The apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall give written notice to the board of a change in sponsorship within 10 working days of the change in sponsorship.
2538.58. (a) As an alternative to the trainee license described in Section 2538.28, this section establishes requirements for licensure as an apprentice hearing aid dispenser. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser license authorizes the licenseholder to engage in the practice of dispensing hearing aids under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor in accordance with this section.(b) An apprentice sponsor is a licensed hearing aid dispenser who has held a valid hearing aid dispensers license issued by the board for at least three years and has agreed to act as an apprentice sponsor to the applicant. An apprentice sponsor shall be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the apprentice, and shall be responsible for services provided to a client by the apprentice hearing aid dispenser.(c) The board shall issue an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:(1) The applicant has filed a completed application form and paid the apprentice licensee fee, as established by the board by regulation. The regulatory fee shall be in an amount no greater than the reasonable cost to the board to administer this section and shall be deposited into the fund.(2) The applicant has met all academic qualifications for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser.(3) The applicant has a signed statement from a person licensed as a hearing aid dispenser that the person will act as the applicants apprentice sponsor for the duration of the apprentices training in accordance with this section.(d) The duration of the apprenticeship shall begin on the date the board issues an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license and expires 18 months thereafter. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall maintain a valid apprentice license during the duration of the apprenticeship.(e) The training of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be performed under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor approved by the board.(f) The board shall, by regulation, establish a list of approved courses for purposes of the training program for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser that includes a minimum number of hours of coursework that is appropriate for the experience and functions necessary for an apprentice that is consistent with Section 2531.02.(g) An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be required to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum contact hours of inpatient care, as determined by the board, including a minimum of directly supervised hours, to sit for the written and practical examinations required pursuant to Section 2538.25.(h) In order to be eligible to sit for the practical examination specified in Section 2538.31, an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall do the following:(1) Successfully complete the International Hearing Societys Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course or another comparable course approved by the board.(2) Successfully complete the directly supervised practicum training for at least 12 months in accordance with this section.(i) Upon successful completion of the practical examination required pursuant to Section 2538.31, the apprentice shall complete the remainder of the apprenticeship under the indirect supervision of the apprentice sponsor.(j) An apprentice sponsor shall not supervise more than three apprentices at one time.(k) An apprentice sponsor shall submit a written notification of termination of sponsorship to the board and the apprentice licenseholder within 10 working days of cessation of sponsorship.(l) The apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall give written notice to the board of a change in sponsorship within 10 working days of the change in sponsorship.
2538.58. (a) As an alternative to the trainee license described in Section 2538.28, this section establishes requirements for licensure as an apprentice hearing aid dispenser. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser license authorizes the licenseholder to engage in the practice of dispensing hearing aids under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor in accordance with this section.(b) An apprentice sponsor is a licensed hearing aid dispenser who has held a valid hearing aid dispensers license issued by the board for at least three years and has agreed to act as an apprentice sponsor to the applicant. An apprentice sponsor shall be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the apprentice, and shall be responsible for services provided to a client by the apprentice hearing aid dispenser.(c) The board shall issue an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:(1) The applicant has filed a completed application form and paid the apprentice licensee fee, as established by the board by regulation. The regulatory fee shall be in an amount no greater than the reasonable cost to the board to administer this section and shall be deposited into the fund.(2) The applicant has met all academic qualifications for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser.(3) The applicant has a signed statement from a person licensed as a hearing aid dispenser that the person will act as the applicants apprentice sponsor for the duration of the apprentices training in accordance with this section.(d) The duration of the apprenticeship shall begin on the date the board issues an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license and expires 18 months thereafter. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall maintain a valid apprentice license during the duration of the apprenticeship.(e) The training of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be performed under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor approved by the board.(f) The board shall, by regulation, establish a list of approved courses for purposes of the training program for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser that includes a minimum number of hours of coursework that is appropriate for the experience and functions necessary for an apprentice that is consistent with Section 2531.02.(g) An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be required to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum contact hours of inpatient care, as determined by the board, including a minimum of directly supervised hours, to sit for the written and practical examinations required pursuant to Section 2538.25.(h) In order to be eligible to sit for the practical examination specified in Section 2538.31, an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall do the following:(1) Successfully complete the International Hearing Societys Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course or another comparable course approved by the board.(2) Successfully complete the directly supervised practicum training for at least 12 months in accordance with this section.(i) Upon successful completion of the practical examination required pursuant to Section 2538.31, the apprentice shall complete the remainder of the apprenticeship under the indirect supervision of the apprentice sponsor.(j) An apprentice sponsor shall not supervise more than three apprentices at one time.(k) An apprentice sponsor shall submit a written notification of termination of sponsorship to the board and the apprentice licenseholder within 10 working days of cessation of sponsorship.(l) The apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall give written notice to the board of a change in sponsorship within 10 working days of the change in sponsorship.
2538.58. (a) As an alternative to the trainee license described in Section 2538.28, this section establishes requirements for licensure as an apprentice hearing aid dispenser. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser license authorizes the licenseholder to engage in the practice of dispensing hearing aids under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor in accordance with this section.
(b) An apprentice sponsor is a licensed hearing aid dispenser who has held a valid hearing aid dispensers license issued by the board for at least three years and has agreed to act as an apprentice sponsor to the applicant. An apprentice sponsor shall be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the apprentice, and shall be responsible for services provided to a client by the apprentice hearing aid dispenser.
(c) The board shall issue an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:
(1) The applicant has filed a completed application form and paid the apprentice licensee fee, as established by the board by regulation. The regulatory fee shall be in an amount no greater than the reasonable cost to the board to administer this section and shall be deposited into the fund.
(2) The applicant has met all academic qualifications for licensure as a hearing aid dispenser.
(3) The applicant has a signed statement from a person licensed as a hearing aid dispenser that the person will act as the applicants apprentice sponsor for the duration of the apprentices training in accordance with this section.
(d) The duration of the apprenticeship shall begin on the date the board issues an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license and expires 18 months thereafter. An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall maintain a valid apprentice license during the duration of the apprenticeship.
(e) The training of an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be performed under the supervision of an apprentice sponsor approved by the board.
(f) The board shall, by regulation, establish a list of approved courses for purposes of the training program for an apprentice hearing aid dispenser that includes a minimum number of hours of coursework that is appropriate for the experience and functions necessary for an apprentice that is consistent with Section 2531.02.
(g) An apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall be required to complete a minimum number of supervised practicum contact hours of inpatient care, as determined by the board, including a minimum of directly supervised hours, to sit for the written and practical examinations required pursuant to Section 2538.25.
(h) In order to be eligible to sit for the practical examination specified in Section 2538.31, an apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall do the following:
(1) Successfully complete the International Hearing Societys Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course or another comparable course approved by the board.
(2) Successfully complete the directly supervised practicum training for at least 12 months in accordance with this section.
(i) Upon successful completion of the practical examination required pursuant to Section 2538.31, the apprentice shall complete the remainder of the apprenticeship under the indirect supervision of the apprentice sponsor.
(j) An apprentice sponsor shall not supervise more than three apprentices at one time.
(k) An apprentice sponsor shall submit a written notification of termination of sponsorship to the board and the apprentice licenseholder within 10 working days of cessation of sponsorship.
(l) The apprentice hearing aid dispenser shall give written notice to the board of a change in sponsorship within 10 working days of the change in sponsorship.
SEC. 6. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
SEC. 6. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
SEC. 6. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
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The officers of the board are a president, vice president, and a secretary-treasurer.