Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7922

Introduced
2/27/26  
Refer
2/27/26  
Report Pass
3/30/26  
Engrossed
4/16/26  

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill is set to have significant implications for the practice of speech-language pathology and audiology within the state. By consolidating the laws into one chapter, it intends to simplify compliance for practitioners and create a clearer path for new applicants seeking licensure. This consolidation will also likely address inconsistencies and overlaps in regulatory requirements that previously existed under the two separate chapters, making it potentially easier for professionals to navigate the licensure process.

Summary

House Bill 7922 aims to streamline the regulation of speech-language pathology and audiology by repealing the older regulation chapter and consolidating the provisions into a single updated statute. This legislative move is expected to enhance the regulatory framework for licensure, ensuring that the practices are aligned with contemporary standards and methods. The act emphasizes the importance of maintaining public health, safety, and welfare through rigorous oversight of practitioners in these fields.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HB 7922 relates to the amendments in the qualifications for licensure and the grounds for disciplinary action. For instance, the revised statute introduces stipulations regarding the ethical practice of speech-language pathologists and audiologists, which may be seen as burdensome or overly stringent by some practitioners. The legislation also seeks to ensure that only qualified individuals are permitted to offer professional services, which may raise concerns about the impact on the accessibility of services for clients in need.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0471

Establishes prevailing standards and procedures for licensing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island.

RI H5557

Establishes prevailing standards and procedures for licensing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island.

RI S0607

Makes a series of amendments to several statutes regarding businesses and professions to provide clarity or align with new federal requirements.

RI H5614

Makes a series of amendments to several statutes regarding businesses and professions to provide clarity or align with new federal requirements.

RI S1082

SENATE RESOLUTION COMMEMORATING MAY OF 2025, AS "NATIONAL SPEECH - LANGUAGE - HEARING MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

RI S0942

Makes certain technical amendments /clarifications to the statutes relating to the assessment of real property and the timing and process to appeals thereof.

RI H6043

Makes certain technical amendments /clarifications to the statutes relating to the assessment of real property and the timing and process to appeals thereof.

RI S0608

Standardizes successor appointment language for various boards and adds language providing that a quorum be a majority of appointed members and the language applies across several healthcare professional boards that currently lack this language.

RI H5550

Standardizes successor appointment language for various boards and adds language providing that a quorum be a majority of appointed members and the language applies across several healthcare professional boards that currently lack this language.

RI S0402

Makes several amendments relative to the affordable clean energy security act establishing the act's priority over chapter 6.2 of title 42 (2021 act on climate).

Similar Bills

OR SB943

Relating to audiology; prescribing an effective date.

MT HB744

Authorize speech-language pathology aides and audiology aides

NM HB180

Speech Language Pathology License

NM SB502

Speech-language Pathologist Licensure

NM HB211

Speech-language Pathology License

NM HB11

Audiology & Speech-language Pathology Compact

NV AB177

Makes various changes relating to audiology, fitting and dispensing hearing aids and speech-language pathology. (BDR 54-199)

RI S2857

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.