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Minutes for SB77 - Committee on Health and Human Services
Short Title
Enacting the audiology and speech-language pathology interstate compact.
Minutes Content for Thu, Mar 11, 2021
Scott Abbott, Revisor of Statutes, provided an overview of SB77 for the committee.
Mr. Abbott responded to questions from the committee.
Susie Ternes, Executive Director, Kansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (KSHA), provided testimony in support of SB77 which would facilitate the interstate practice of audiology and speech-language pathology while maintaining public protection. The compact will become effective once 10 states have enacted it. Currently six states have passed legislation, including Oklahoma. Fifteen states, including Nebraska and Colorado, have introduced legislation. Once in effect, the compact would allow practitioners the privilege to practice in-person and through telehealth in ASLP-IC states. This compact enables individuals to find specialty providers that may not be available in their state. Benefits of the compact were provided to the committee. It was noted that the compact does not expand the SOP of the KSHA. The state retains enforcement and investigative rights.A commission is responsible for implementing the rules and bylaws of the ASLP-IC. SB77 will improve access to speech, language and hearing services for Kansas citizens while protecting consumers (Attachment 1).
Allison Winters, Vice President of Professional Practices, Kansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association, provided her personal testimony in support of SB77. As a former military wife and a practicing speech language pathologist, Mrs. Winters experienced the difficulties of practicing while regularly dealing with her husband being transferred to his next station. Each move required applying for licensure in the new state. While most states share similar criterion, the process created gaps in her employment. While the military tries to assist spouses securing new jobs, they have little influence with professions that require a license to practice. SB77 would simplify this process in states that are part of the compact (Attachment 2). Mrs. Winters provided additional information in support of SB77 (Attachment 3).
The Conferees responded to questions from the committee.
The following provide written only testimony:
Kris Pederson, Speech-Language Pathologist and Clinical Associate Professor, University of Kansas (Attachment 4)
Ana Paula Mumy, Board Vice President for Communications, Kansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (Attachment 5)
Stacie Clarkson, Associate Executive Director, Greenbush, Inc. (Attachment 6)
Kelly Frantz-Langford, President, tiny-k Alliance (Attachment 7)
