8A3D705F94BB789A872586B6007591F3 Hearing Summary

Representative Young,
bill sponsor, introduced SB21-021.



The bill enters Colorado into the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
Interstate Compact, pending its adoption by ten or more states.  The
compact requires that member states recognize licenses for audiology or
speech-language pathology issued by any other member state, including practicing
telehealth services, and establishes minimum criteria for such licenses.
 One such criterion is a background check for audiologists and speech-language
pathologists.  Credentialed practitioners in a member state can apply
for the privilege to practice in another member state.  The compact
grants member states the authority to charge a fee for such privilege.

 

The bill grants the Department of Regulatory Agencies the authority to
promulgate rules related to the implementation of the compact, to appoint
members to the compact’s governing commission, and to report data to the
commission, as determined by rule.

Representative Carver, bill sponsor, gave opening remarks on the bill.

Dr. Lesley Edwards-Gaither, representing Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Military Spouses, testified in support of the bill. Dr. Elissa Jodon, representing Colorado Academy of Audiology, testified in support of the bill. Lacy Hoyer-Helms, representing OASIS Pediatric Therapy, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Susan Adams, representing American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, testified in support of the bill. Dr. Katheryn Boada, representing Children's Hospital Colorado and Colorado Speech-Language Hearing Association, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Dan Logsdon, representing Council of State Governments, answered questions from committee members.

Megan Wagner, representing Colorado Speech Language Hearing Association, testified in support of the bill. The witness responded to questions from committee members.

Submitted written testimony can be found in Attachment A.

Committee members gave final comments on the bill.