Repeals the older of the two existing chapters related to speech-language pathologists and audiologists and makes several amendments to reconcile the two statutes into one.

Plain-English Summary

Rhode Island currently has two separate sets of laws on the books that govern speech-language pathologists and audiologists — professionals who help people with communication disorders, hearing problems, and related conditions. Over time, this created confusion because the two laws sometimes overlapped or conflicted with each other. This bill would fix that problem by repealing (eliminating) the older of the two laws and updating the remaining, newer law to combine the best elements of both into a single, clear set of rules.

The changes are largely technical and administrative in nature. The goal is to streamline and simplify the legal framework that regulates how these professionals are licensed and practice in Rhode Island, rather than change the fundamental requirements for becoming or working as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist. Think of it as cleaning up and organizing the rulebook so everyone — professionals, employers, and regulators — is working from the same page.

This bill primarily affects licensed speech-language pathologists and audiologists practicing in Rhode Island, as well as the state agency responsible for overseeing their licensing. It could also indirectly affect patients and clients who rely on these services, since clearer regulations can make it easier for qualified professionals to get and maintain their licenses. The bill has been referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, where it is currently being held for further study before any final action is taken.