Committee advances bill to allow mail distribution of hearing aids with teleaudiology safeguards

Senator Bradley introduced Senate Bill 126 to the Senate Committee on Health Policy, saying the bill would increase “the availability and accessibility of hearing aids” by allowing mail distribution provided required teleaudiology testing is completed by a licensed professional.

The bill removes an existing prohibition on distributing hearing aids through the mail, a restriction Senator Bradley said “that 47 other states do not have,” and requires that teleaudiology testing and procedures be conducted by an audiologist or a hearing aid specialist before sale.

The measure drew one in-person supporter and an appearance card from the Academy of Audiologists. Theresa Bulger of the Academy told the committee she and stakeholders are “working with Senator Bradley ... to arrive at an amendment that makes this bill something that we can leave and support.” There was no further debate.

By roll call, the committee reported SB 126 favorably to the full Senate. The meeting record shows the clerk called the roll and the chair announced, “By your vote, Senate Bill 126 is reported favorably.” The transcript does not provide a numeric vote tally in a single consolidated line.

SB 126 would leave teleaudiology as the required pre‑sale clinical evaluation while removing the prohibition on mail distribution; it does not remove the clinical testing or licensing requirement. Sponsor and supporters said the change is intended to reduce geographic and mobility barriers to hearing‑aid access. The bill’s text and any implementing amendment language were not included in the committee discussion recorded in the transcript.

The committee moved on after the vote; Senator Bradley said he would continue to work with stakeholders on amendments before further consideration.