Bill > HB79

This bill establishes the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact, a comprehensive agreement designed to facilitate interstate practice for audiologists and speech-language pathologists while maintaining high professional standards and protecting public health. The compact allows licensed professionals to practice across member states under a "compact privilege" by meeting specific qualifications, including holding an active, unencumbered license in their home state, completing specified educational requirements, passing national examinations, and undergoing criminal background checks. The bill creates a national commission to oversee the compact, which will develop a shared data system for tracking licensure, maintain uniform rules, and handle interstate professional practice issues. Key features include supporting military spouses by allowing them to maintain a home state license, enabling telehealth practice across state lines, establishing procedures for investigating and addressing professional misconduct, and providing a framework for mutual recognition of professional credentials among participating states. The compact aims to increase public access to audiology and speech-language pathology services, enhance professional mobility, and ensure consistent regulatory oversight across state lines, with the compact becoming effective once ten states have enacted the legislation.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=79&year=25