Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF2998

Introduced

3/20/23

Refer

3/20/23

Caption

Licensure requirements established for speech-language pathology assistants, and licensure fee and criminal history background requirements established.

Impact

The introduction of HF2998 will have significant repercussions on current state laws pertaining to health occupations, particularly those related to the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology. By formalizing the licensure of speech-language pathology assistants, the bill aims to ensure that individuals providing these services meet standardized qualifications, which should enhance the overall quality of care for patients. This move addresses a growing recognition of the importance of having properly trained professionals in the field of speech and language therapy.

Summary

House File 2998 establishes new licensure requirements specifically for speech-language pathology assistants in Minnesota. It sets out the criteria for initial licensure, including the requirement for a criminal history background check conducted by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The bill outlines the necessary qualifications, including educational credentials and supervised practice hours, that applicants must fulfill to obtain their licenses. It also determines the licensure fees and includes provisions related to licensure renewal and continuing education requirements for the assistants.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding the bill, especially concerning how these new licensing requirements may impact the accessibility of speech-language pathology services. Some stakeholders argue that while the intention of HF2998 is to improve quality and accountability in the profession, it may inadvertently create barriers for prospective assistants entering the field, particularly due to the requirements for educational credentials and the associated costs of licensure. Questions have also been raised about the potential impact on current practitioners who may not meet the new standards but have been working in the field successfully.