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HB 180

SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY LICENSE

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Wonda Johnson and 1 co-sponsor

HB 180 creates state licensure requirements for speech language pathologists in New Mexico to regulate the profession and establish consumer protections.

action postponed indefinitely
#health&healthfacilities #licensure
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Bill Summary · HB 180

Legislative bill overview

HB 180 establishes licensing requirements for speech language pathologists (SLPs) in New Mexico, creating a regulated profession with defined qualifications, credentials, and scope of practice. The bill sets standards for who can practice as an SLP in the state and establishes enforcement mechanisms for violations.

Why is this important

Speech language pathology is currently an unregulated profession in New Mexico, meaning individuals without formal training could legally practice. Licensing creates consumer protections, ensures practitioners meet educational and competency standards, and may improve insurance coverage and access to services for patients seeking treatment for speech, language, swallowing, and voice disorders.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definition: Disputes over which activities require a license versus which can be performed by unlicensed personnel, affecting existing practitioners and alternative providers
  • Licensing fees and grandfathering: Whether existing unlicensed practitioners can obtain licenses without full degree requirements, potentially creating two-tier systems
  • Interstate reciprocity: How licenses from other states are recognized, which affects mobility of professionals and could create barriers or inconsistencies
  • Implementation costs: Administrative burden on state licensing boards and potential cost pass-through to practitioners and patients

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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