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SB 1497

Sunset Laws - As enacted, extends the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact to June 30, 2034. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 63, Chapter 17.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Jackson

Tennessee extends its participation in the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact through June 30, 2034, enabling licensed practitioners to work across state lines without separate state licensing.

Pub. Ch. 633
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Bill Summary · SB 1497

Legislative bill overview

SB 1497 extends Tennessee's participation in the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact until June 30, 2034. This compact allows licensed audiologists and speech-language pathologists to practice across state lines without obtaining separate licenses in each state, streamlining interstate professional mobility.

Why is this important

The extension maintains reciprocal licensing agreements that benefit healthcare providers by reducing administrative burden and patients by improving access to specialized services, particularly in rural or border areas. Without renewal, the compact would expire and practitioners would revert to obtaining individual state licenses, creating delays and costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory oversight concerns: Some may worry that interstate compacts reduce individual state control over professional standards and disciplinary actions
  • Sunset mechanism debate: The 8-year extension raises questions about whether periodic reauthorization is necessary or creates unnecessary legislative churn
  • Scope of practice variations: Differences in how states define audiology and speech-language pathology scope could create inconsistencies under a single compact framework

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

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