Bill > HB1471

This bill amends the licensing regulations for speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Arkansas by modifying the expiration and renewal process for professional licenses. Specifically, the bill changes the previous system where licenses expired at 12:00 midnight on June 30th each year to a more flexible renewal framework. Under the new provisions, licenses will expire each year, but licensees will have a 15-day grace period after the expiration date to renew without penalty, during which they will not be considered as practicing without a license or charged a late fee. If renewal is postmarked 16 or more days after the expiration date, licensees can still renew their license by paying the standard renewal fee plus a monthly late penalty. The bill maintains the existing policy that professionals with expired licenses do not need to retake examinations to renew their credentials, thus reducing administrative burden and ensuring continuity of professional practice for speech-language pathology and audiology professionals in the state.

Health and Social Services

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1471&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R