Bill > HB1572

This bill makes several key changes to Indiana law regarding hearing aids and speech-language pathology. First, it adds speech-language pathology assistants to the definition of "practitioner" for telehealth purposes, expanding their professional scope. The bill introduces new definitions for "over-the-counter hearing aid" and "prescription hearing aid" in line with federal regulations, and updates the legal framework for selling and fitting hearing aids. Specifically, the legislation allows for the sale and distribution of over-the-counter hearing aids without requiring fitting by a licensed hearing aid dealer or audiologist, which is a significant departure from previous regulations that did not distinguish between prescription and over-the-counter devices. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of audiology to explicitly include selling and fitting both prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids, conducting auditory training, and speech reading. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for consumers in accessing hearing aids and clarify the roles of various healthcare professionals in hearing health services, with most provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1572/details