Bill > HB744

This bill modifies Montana's licensing requirements for speech-language pathology and audiology aides working in school districts. Specifically, the bill establishes that speech-language pathology aides and audiology aides employed by school districts will not be required to obtain a license from the professional board. Instead, these aides must work under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist or audiologist for at least 20% of their time and are prohibited from performing tasks that require independent professional judgment. The board of speech-language pathologists and audiologists is tasked with creating rules that define the qualifications and permitted activities for these aides, with the stipulation that the rules cannot be overly restrictive. The bill's provisions will become effective after the board adopts implementing rules, and it includes a contingent termination date 30 days after those rules are finalized. The overall intent appears to be providing more flexibility in staffing for school-based speech and hearing services while maintaining professional oversight.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3376