Rules committee considers joining Audiologist and Speech‑Language Pathology Interstate Compact to ease cross‑state practice

Representative Meerman testified in support of House Bill 4509, which would enter Michigan into the Audiologist and Speech‑Language Pathology Interstate Compact and allow qualified audiologists and speech-language pathologists to provide services across member states without duplicate licensure.

‘‘This bill would support workforce mobility across member states of the compact, enhance access to care, especially in our rural communities, and maintain quality standards in health,’’ Representative Meerman said. He told the committee that 36 states have already joined similar compacts and that the measure would reduce redundant licensure and expand telehealth access.

Committee members asked whether the compact would impose new rules beyond Michigan’s existing licensing requirements, whether there would be a Michigan-only license option, and if individual practitioners would need to take additional administrative steps to participate. Representative Meerman said he did not have all administrative details at the hearing and agreed to request that staff provide specifics about practitioner enrollment and any required administrative steps.

Vice Chair Whitworth and other members asked about potential fiscal impacts. Representative Meerman said he had heard the fiscal office had not provided a number and that the fiscal impact was expected to be smaller than some larger compacts already enacted, but he asked committee staff to obtain a formal fiscal estimate. No committee vote was taken at the hearing.