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Committee backs compact that eases licensure mobility for audiologists and speech‑language pathologists
Summary
SB 10‑75 would adopt the Audiology and Speech‑Language Pathology Compact and add a fingerprint requirement for practitioners practicing in Arizona under compact privilege; proponents said the change will expand access to services and help address provider shortages.
The Senate Health and Human Services Committee voted to advance Senate Bill 10‑75, which adopts the Audiology and Speech‑Language Pathology Compact that permits licensed audiologists and speech‑language pathologists to practice across participating states via compact privilege.
Committee testimony described the compact as a tool to improve license portability and access to care. Anna Salas of Cornerstone Public Affairs, representing Arizona Mentor Network, said Arizona faces a projected shortfall of roughly 1,000 speech‑language pathology providers and that the compact will act as a “force multiplier” to fill positions and improve continuity of care. Victoria Clark, president of the Arizona Speech Language Hearing Association, testified the compact creates an efficient pathway for clinicians to hold privileges across states and to continue treatment when patients travel or live part of the year outside Arizona.
Committee members considered and adopted a 33‑page amendment that requires persons practicing under compact privilege in Arizona to obtain a level 1 fingerprint clearance card from the Department of Public Safety’s fingerprinting division. The amendment was described in committee as a negotiated change after stakeholder conversations with ARSHA, DHS and DPS. The committee recorded a 6‑0 (with one not voting) vote in favor of the bill as amended.
Proponents said the compact will expand telehealth and cross‑border care opportunities and cited Department of Defense support for portability for military families. No organized opposition testified in committee.
