TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 32. STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY

Chapter 741. SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND AUDIOLOGISTS

The State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (board) proposes the repeal of §§741.1, 741.2, 741.13-741.26, 741.33, 741.41, 741.61, 741.62, 741.64, 741.65, 741.67, 741.81, 741.82, 741.84, 741.85, 741.87, 741.91, 741.101-741.103, 741.121-741.123, 741.141-741.143, 741.161-741.166, 741.181, 741.182, 741.191-741.201, and 741.301-741.303; new §§741.1, 741.13, 741.14, 741.33, 741.41, 741.61, 741.62, 741.64, 741.65, 741.67, 741.81, 741.82, 741.84, 741.85, 741.91, 741.101-741.103, 741.111, 741.112, 741.121, 741.141, 741.142, 741.161-741.165, 741.181, 741.182, and 741.191-741.195; and amendments to §§741.11, 741.12, 741.31, 741.32, 741.63, 741.66, 741.83, and 741.86; concerning speech-language pathology and audiology.

Government Code, §2001.039, requires that each state agency review and consider for readoption each rule adopted by that agency pursuant to the Government Code, Chapter 2001 (Administrative Procedure Act). The sections have been reviewed and the board has determined that reasons for adopting the sections continue to exist in that a rule on the subjects is needed; however the rule needs revision as described in this preamble.

The board published a Notice of Intention to Review the sections as required by Rider 167 in the Texas Register on May 28, 1999 (24 TexReg 4033). No comments were received during the 60-day comment period.

Because of the numerous amendments, repeals, and new sections, the board elected to identify the changes by subchapters. Article 4512j, V.T.C.S., was codified by the 76th Texas Legislature, 1999, as the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this reference has been made throughout the rules. All references to other laws which were codified have been changed. Duplicative language that is currently in both the Texas Occupations Code and this chapter has been deleted throughout the sections and the Texas Occupations Code referenced. Also, language that the Texas Legislative Council deemed unnecessary during the codification process has been deleted from these sections. Throughout Chapter 741 some sections have catch lines and others do not; all catch lines are being deleted for consistency. The board proposes a new Subchapter H relating to fitting and dispensing of hearing instruments and renumbered the following subchapters accordingly.

Only changes to existing language have been identified in the following narratives:

SUBCHAPTER A:

Subchapter A is being renamed to more accurately reflect what the subchapter contains.

Section 741.1 which defines the purpose of the section is being repealed since this language is not necessary.

Section 741.2 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.1 concerning terms commonly used in the professions while deleting duplicative or unnecessary language.

SUBCHAPTER B:

Section 741.11 and §741.12 are being amended to change the title of board officers and to allow the complaints committee presiding officer to call a meeting when necessary.

Sections 741.13-741.25 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.13 to reorganize only pertinent information relating to duties and powers of the board while deleting duplicative, unnecessary or language that would be more appropriate as a board policy.

Section 741.26 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.14 to clarify the process to petition the board for a rule change and to require the submission of the economic cost associated with the petition for a rule change.

SUBCHAPTER C:

Subchapter C is being renamed to more accurately reflect what the subchapter, as proposed, will contain.

Section 741.31 is being amended to clarify assessment of language and speech and to require communication screening in the client's native language.

Section 741.32 is being amended to extend the date for using 25 dB HL for hearing screening; to require testing in both ears; to establish new hearing screening procedures effective September 1, 2001, to use 25 dB HL for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten and 20 dB HL for grades 1 through 12; to define hearing screening failures; and to clarify follow up procedures.

Current §741.33 is being repealed from this subchapter and pertinent language has been moved to new Subchapter H. Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments, as new §741.103, relating to Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Conducting Audiometric Testing for the Purpose of Fitting and Dispensing Hearing Instruments.

New §741.33 is being proposed to clarify that licensed speech-language pathologists, interns in speech-language pathology, and assistants in speech-language pathology may participate in universal newborn hearing screening.

SUBCHAPTER D:

Section 741.41 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.41 concerning the code of ethics to clarify the record maintenance process; include language concerning providing false or misleading information on an application form; require than an intern or assistant abide by the decision of the supervisor; require submission of proof of need in order to supervise more than four interns and assistants; clarify documentation concerning supervision; add language relating to denial of renewal for failure to pay child support; and reorganize and clarify existing language.

SUBCHAPTER E AND SUBCHAPTER F:

Because these two subchapters are parallel for the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology, they have been addressed together.

Section 741.61 and §741.81 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.61 and §741.81 respectively, to require that the applicant pass the examination within two years of the end of the internship or repeat the experience; clarify that course work earned before the baccalaureate degree is earned will not meet the graduate course work requirement; delete language relating to basic course work and specific areas in which clinical experience must be acquired since colleges and universities verify this information before granting a degree; and to reorganize and clarify existing language.

Section 741.62 and §741.82 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.62 and §741.82 respectively, to require that course work and clinical experience be completed within 10 years of the beginning of the internship; expand and clarify segments, evaluation, maintenance of records, and changes in internship; allow the board and a university to designate specific individuals to assist them, and reorganize and clarify existing language.

Section 741.63 and §741.83 are being amended to clarify that "special conditions" are actually a "waiver" for applicants who hold the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence. The section titles are also being amended to reflect this clarification.

Section 741.64 and §741.84 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.64 and §741.84 respectively, to define how an individual who obtains the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's certificate of clinical competence may qualify; delete unnecessary language; and reorganize and clarify existing language.

Section 741.65 and §741.85 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.65 and §741.85 respectively, to clarify and expand the existing language concerning the clinical deficiency plan and requests to change direct or indirect supervision; increase the number of course work hours required in core curriculum that must be completed within 10 years of the date of application for the assistant license; identify course work that is not acceptable; delete language concerning course work earned from foreign universities; revise initial client contact; define part-time supervision; allow an assistant to attend an admission, review, or dismissal without the presence of the supervisor under specific conditions; and to reorganize and clarify existing language.

Section 741.66 and §741.86 are being amended to clarify requirements for a temporary certificate of registration. In addition, §741.86 is being amended to state the holder of the registration may not fit and dispense hearing instruments.

Section 741.67 is being repealed in order to reference the Texas Occupations Code and remove duplicative language for the requirements of the limited license to practice in the public schools.

Current §741.87 is being repealed from this subchapter and pertinent language is being moved to new Subchapter H. Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments, as new §741.101, relating to Requirements for Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments and new §741.102, relating to General Practice Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments. In addition, language to clarify that an intern in audiology may only fit and dispense hearing instruments under supervision is being proposed. Other language in current §741.87 is being moved to other more appropriate sections of the rules, such as §741.161 relating to Renewal Procedures.

SUBCHAPTER G:

Section 741.91 concerning dual licenses is being repealed and replaced with new §741.91 to incorporate the same changes being proposed to §§741.61, 741.63, 741.81, and 741.83; reorganize existing language; remove unnecessary language; and rename the section.

SUBCHAPTER H:

This is a new subchapter that incorporates language from several sections of the current rules into one subchapter as Subchapter H. Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments.

New §741.101, relating to Requirements for Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments, contains pertinent language from current §741.87 which is being repealed. In addition language to clarify that an intern in audiology may only fit and dispense hearing instruments under supervision is being proposed.

New §741.102, relating to General Practice Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments, contains pertinent language from current §741.41(b)(1), (4), and (5) and language from current §741.87(g). The language concerning the 30 day trial period upon the return of a hearing instrument has been clarified to define the trial period as 30 consecutive days.

New §741.103, relating to Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Conducting Audiometric Testing for the Purpose of Fitting and Dispensing Hearing Instruments, contains the language from current §741.33. For clarification, the language has been reorganized and unnecessary language deleted.

SUBCHAPTER I:

Current Subchapter H. Application Procedures is being repealed and replaced with new Subchapter I. Application Procedures.

Section 741.101 which defines the purpose of the section is being repealed since this language is not necessary.

Section 741.102 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.111 to expand and clarify application submission procedures; reference time periods for processing; identify Board mailing address; delete duplicative language; and reorganize existing language. The section title is being changed to more accurately reflect what the section contains.

Section 741.103 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.112 to clarify that the application and initial license fee have been combined; add name of council that determines accreditation of college or university programs; allow college or university program director to designate another person to provide information; delete reference to limited license to practice in the public schools; add documentation required for dual applicants; define the time period in which an application form should be signed and dated to reflect the actual process being conducted by office staff; reference time period for passing the examination; and delete unnecessary language.

SUBCHAPTER J:

Current Subchapter I. Licensure Examinations is being repealed and replaced with new Subchapter J. Licensure Examinations.

Section 741.121 which defines the purpose of the section is being repealed since this language is not necessary.

Section 741.122 and §741.123 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.121 to rename the section; correct the reference for the examination administrator; clarify that tests are administered separately in speech-language pathology and in audiology; define the passing score; identify who shall notify the applicant of the results of the examination; and remove duplicative or unnecessary language.

SUBCHAPTER K:

Current Subchapter J. Licensing and Registration Procedures is being repealed and replaced with new Subchapter K. Issuance and Display of License and Registration. In addition, the subchapter title is being renamed to more accurately define what the subchapter contains.

Section 741.141 which defines the purpose of the section is being repealed since this language is not necessary.

Section 741.142 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.141 to delete the reference to the limited license to practice in the public schools; move existing language concerning denial of a license to Subchapter N; reorganize and clarify process for issuance of a license, certificate, and registration; and delete unnecessary language.

Section 741.143 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.142 to define how all licenses, certificates, and registrations, including holders of provisional licenses, limited licenses, and temporary certificates of registration, shall be displayed.

SUBCHAPTER L:

Current Subchapter K. License and Registration Renewal is being repealed and replaced with new Subchapter L. License and Registration Renewal.

Section 741.161 which defines the purpose of the section is being repealed since this language is not necessary.

Section 741.162 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.161 to rename the section; clarify that the temporary certificate of registration and the provisional license cannot be renewed; clarify renewal process for intern and assistant licenses and registration to fit and dispense hearing instruments; define how corrections are made on the renewal form; add language to this section that currently exists in other sections relating to renewal of a limited license, maintenance of the record of continuing education hours form, and denial of a license for failure to pay child support; delete unnecessary language; and reorganize existing language.

Section 741.163 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.162 to decrease the maximum number of continuing education hours that may be accrued; expand on maintenance of continuing education and acceptable verification; state that continuing education hours may not be earned prior to the effective date of the license; require prior board approval for continuing education in a related area; identify the passing examination score; delete unnecessary language; and reorganize existing language.

Section 741.164 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.163 to identify the name of the board form and fee that shall be submitted; require that the form be completed, signed, and dated; require submission of the CE log; state that accrued continuing education hours must still be available for use at the time of reactivation; prohibit a licensed audiologist or intern in audiology who has placed his or her license on the inactive status to fit and dispense hearing instruments; delete unnecessary language; and reorganize existing language.

Section 741.165 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.164 to require that the statement concerning the licensee's practice after expiration of the grace period be signed; state that a licensed audiologist or intern in audiology who has not renewed his or her license and registration prior to the end of the 60-day grace period may not fit and dispense hearing instruments; require submission of the CE log; delete unnecessary language; and reorganize existing language.

Section 741.166 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.165 concerning renewal of a licensee on active military duty with no changes to existing language.

SUBCHAPTER M:

Current Subchapter L. Fees and Processing Procedures is being repealed and replaced with new Subchapter M. Fees and Processing Procedures.

Section 741.181 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.181 to increase the fee for the temporary certificate of registration and the inactive fee; clarify that all fees are nonrefundable and that dual licenses are two separate licenses; identify the correct name for the inactive status fee and the provisional application and initial license fee; clarify how the application and initial license fee, which have been combined, are processed when funds returned because of insufficient checks, payment stopped, etc. are received; delete unnecessary language; reorganize existing language; and renumber accordingly.

Section 741.182 is being repealed and replaced with new §741.182 to rename the section to more accurately define what it contains; delete the reference to the letter of denial and provisional license holder because other sections of the rules address these issues; delete unnecessary language; and reorganize and clarify existing language to reflect the actual board process.

SUBCHAPTER N:

Current Subchapter M. Denial, Probation, Suspension, or Revocation of Licensure or Registration is being repealed and replaced with new Subchapter N. Denial, Probation, Suspension, or Revocation of a License or Registration.

Section 741.191 which defines the purpose of the section is being repealed since this language is not necessary.

Section 741.192 and §741.195 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.191 concerning basis to deny, probate, suspend, or revoke a license or registration to delete unnecessary language; reorganize and clarify existing language; and add language currently in other sections of the existing rules concerning denial based on failure to pay child support or if a license in another state is revoked or suspended.

Sections 741.193, 741.194, and 741.200 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.192 concerning procedures for filing a complaint; denying, suspending or revoking a license or registration; to delete unnecessary language; reorganize and clarify existing language to reflect the actual procedures; and to identify duties of the complaints committee.

Sections 741.196, 741.197, and 741.199 are being repealed and replaced with new §741.193 concerning formal hearings and surrender of license or registration to delete unnecessary language; reorganize and clarify existing language; and identify the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

Section 741.198 is being repealed and replaced by new §741.194 concerning informal disposition or proceedings to delete unnecessary language and reorganize and clarify existing language to reflect actual process.

Section 741.201 is being repealed and replaced by new §741.195 concerning schedule of sanctions with no changes to existing language.

SUBCHAPTER N:

Current Subchapter N which contains §§741.301-741.303 concerning Publications is being repealed because it was determined this language is not required as a board rule.

Dorothy Cawthon, Executive Secretary, has determined that for the first five-year period the sections are in effect there will be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the sections: Increased fees are projected to generate additional revenues of approximately $900.00 per year for state government, which will be used to offset the cost of administering the program. There may be fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the sections as proposed: exact dollar amount cannot be determined because it is not known whether a state or local agency reimburses the cost of their employee's licensing fees.

Other amendments or new rules may have fiscal implications to state or local government if the state or local government employs individuals to provide the services required such as the amendment to §741.31 Communication Screening in the client's native language which may require employing or contracting for services if currently unstaffed; the requirements in new §741.61(f) and §741.81(f), an individual repeating the internship may experience a loss from $3,000 to $5,000 during the 36 weeks internship which could result in an decrease in the amount of salary paid; the requirement in new §741.102(4), the trial period is identified as "a trial period of 30 consecutive days" which may be as simple as rewriting the contract. The exact dollar amount cannot be determined because it is not known whether a state or local agency employs individuals who provide these services or the number of contracts that must be rewritten in order to comply with the proposed rules.

Contact with Mr. Elijah Brown, Director, Vision and Hearing Screening Program, Texas Department of Health, concerning the amendments to §741.32 Hearing Screening stated that there was no anticipated economic cost to implement the amendments nor did he believe schools would experience an additional cost to implement. If there is any cost associated with the implementation of the amendments in the schools, it should be less that $100.00.

Ms. Cawthon has also determined that for each year of the first five years that the sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the sections will be to cover the cost of administering the program, establish accountability, and provide service to the public. The amendments, repeals, and new rules should enable licensees, employers, and consumers to understand more clearly the requirements and process for licensure and renewal; maintenance of continuing education; the code of ethics; the time periods established; maintenance of records; and the basis and process for denial, probation, suspension, or revocation of an application, license, or registration. The new rule concerning language and speech screening in the client's native language will provide the client with more appropriate services. The new rule concerning hearing screening should identify clients with hearing problems and avoid over-referrals. The new rule concerning the decrease in continuing education hours that may be acquired during a renewal period should enable licensees to remain current the field of speech-language pathology and audiology and is necessary because the professions are constantly changing. In addition clients should benefit from any new procedures or knowledge acquired by the licensee. The new rule stating the consumer of a hearing instrument may have a trial period of 30 consecutive days should clarify this time frame for both the licensee and consumer and insure the purchaser has an appropriately fitted hearing instrument. The new rule increasing the number of course work hours from 9 to 18 in core curriculum for the applicant of an assistant license should better prepare the assistant to provide services to the client. Listing the hours of course work that are not acceptable should enable the applicant to determine if he or she would qualify for the license prior to submitting an application, fee, and other documentation required to evaluate an application. The new rule allowing an assistant to attend an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) without the supervisor being present provided certain conditions are adhered to will provide relief to the licensed professional speech-language pathologist in schools from certain routine activities. The new rule listing the time period in which the application form must be signed and dated will insure current information is being presented to the board office.

There may be minimal economic costs to small businesses, micro-businesses, and individuals engaged in the business of speech-language pathology or audiology if the increase in the fees effect the business or licensee, if the licensee employed is unable to provide communication screening in the client's native language, if the applicant is required to repeat an internship due to failure to pass the examination within the specified time period, or if the applicant is required to take additional course work in core curriculum. There is no anticipated economic costs to schools to provide hearing screening grades one through 12. There should be no effect on local employment.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Ms. Dorothy Cawthon, State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas, 78756-3183, telephone (512) 834-6627, fax (512) 834-6677. Public comments will be accepted following the date of publication of the proposal in the Texas Register until August 15, 2000.

The text of the repealed sections will not be printed in the Texas Register but may be examined on the Board's internet address at: http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/hcqs/plc/speech.htm or the Texas Register's internet address at: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg or in the Board's physical office located at 8407 Wall Street, Room S-420, Austin, Texas, 78754.

Subchapter A. INTRODUCTION

22 TAC §741.1, §741.2

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.1.Purpose.

§741.2.Definitions.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004622

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter A. DEFINITIONS

22 TAC §741.1

The new section is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

The proposed new section affects the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code.

§741.1.Definitions.

Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words and terms below shall have the following meanings. Also, refer to the Texas Occupations Code, §401.001, for definitions of additional words and terms.

(1)

Delegation--The supervisor of an assistant may delegate certain services to the assistant; however, the supervisor is ultimately responsible for all services provided.

(2)

Ear specialist--A licensed physician who specializes in diseases of the ear and is medically trained to identify the symptoms of deafness in the context of the total health of the patient, and is qualified by special training to diagnose and treat hearing loss. Such physicians are also known as otolaryngologists, otologists, and otorhinolaryngologists.

(3)

Extended absence--More than two consecutive working days for any single continuing education experience.

(4)

Extended recheck--Starting at 40 dB and going down by 10 dB until no response is obtained or until 20 dB is reached and then up by 5 dB until a response is obtained. The frequencies to be evaluated are 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 hertz (Hz).

(5)

Health care professional--An individual required to be licensed or registered under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, or any person licensed, certified, or registered by the state in a health-related profession.

(6)

Hearing instrument--A device designed for, offered for the purpose of, or represented as aiding persons with or compensating for, impaired hearing.

(7)

Hearing screening--A manually administered individual pure-tone air conduction screening with pass/fail results for the purpose of rapidly identifying those persons with possible hearing impairment which has the potential of interfering with communication.

(8)

Sale or purchase--Includes the sale, lease or rental of a hearing instrument to a member of the consuming public who is a user or prospective user of a hearing instrument.

(9)

Used hearing instrument--A hearing instrument that has been worn for any period of time by a user. However, a hearing instrument shall not be considered "used" merely because it has been worn by a prospective user as a part of a bona fide hearing instrument evaluation conducted to determine whether to select that particular hearing instruments for that prospective user, if such evaluation has been conducted in the presence of the dispenser or a hearing instruments health professional selected by the dispenser to assist the buyer in making such a determination.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004623

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter B. THE BOARD

22 TAC §§741.11-741.14

The amendments and new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These amendments and new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.11.Officers.

(a)

[ Chairperson. ]

[ (1) ]

The presiding officer [ chairperson ] shall preside at all meetings at which he or she is in attendance , [ and ] perform all duties prescribed by law or this chapter , and [ . ]

[ (2)

The chairperson ] is authorized by the board to make day-to-day minor decisions regarding board activities in order to facilitate the responsiveness and effectiveness of the board. The executive secretary shall keep a tabulation of the minor decisions and include them in the executive secretary's report to the board.

(b)

[ Vice-Chairperson. ]

[ (1) ]

The assistant presiding officer [ vice-chairperson ] shall perform the duties of the presiding officer [ chair in the absence or disability of the chair. ] should the presiding officer be absent, become disabled, or vacate the office. In the event

[ (2)

Should ] the office is vacated, the assistant presiding officer [ of the chairperson become vacant, the vice-chairperson ] shall serve until a successor is named.

(c)

[ Secretary-Treasurer. ]

[ (1) ]

The secretary-treasurer will sign the approved minutes of the board[ . ] and

[ (2)

The secretary-treasurer will sign ] other approved documents of the board in the absence of the presiding officer and assistant presiding officer [ chairperson and vice-chairperson ].

§741.12.Committees.

(a)

The presiding officer [ chairperson ] may appoint board members to committees to assist the board in its work. Other individuals may be appointed to committees. Appointed committee members shall serve a two year term. All committees [ appointed by the chairperson ] shall consist of no more than four members and shall make regular reports to the board by interim written reports or at regular meetings. The board shall direct all such reports to the executive secretary for distribution. Standing committees may include:

(1)-(6)

(No change.)

(b)

(No change.)

(c)

Members appointed to the complaints committee shall consist of one audiologist, one speech-language pathologist , and one public member. The committee presiding officer may call a meeting whenever necessary. At least one of the past members, preferably the complaints committee presiding officer [ chair ], shall remain a member of a newly appointed committee for at least two committee meetings.

§741.13.Transaction of Official Business.

(a)

The fiscal year end shall be August 31st.

(b)

The board shall review annual board expenditures and proposed budgets at the meeting held nearest to the fiscal year end.

(c)

The board shall elect, by a simple majority vote of those members present, a presiding officer, an assistant presiding officer, and a secretary-treasurer at the meeting held nearest to the fiscal year end. If a vacancy occurs in any of the offices at any other time, it shall be filled by a simple majority vote of those members present at any board meeting.

(d)

The executive secretary shall prepare and submit an agenda to the board prior to each meeting. This agenda shall include:

(1)

items required by law;

(2)

items requested by members; and

(3)

other items of board business approved for discussion by the presiding officer.

(e)

The board shall make all official decisions according to parliamentary procedure as set forth in Robert's Rules of Order Revised. If a question arises concerning interpretation of Robert's Rules of Order Revised, the presiding officer or assistant presiding officer shall make the decision.

(f)

The board shall not be bound in any way by any statement or action on the part of any board member, committee, or staff member except when a statement or action is in pursuance of the specific instruction of the board.

(g)

The official seal of the board shall consist of a circle with the words "State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology" circularly arranged about the inner edge of the circle, and in the center of the circle there shall be a five-pointed star, surrounded by the live oak and the olive branches common to official seals of the State of Texas.

(h)

The approved minutes of board meetings shall be official only when authenticated by the seal of the board and affixed with the original signatures of the presiding officer, the secretary-treasurer, and the executive secretary.

(i)

All official records of the board, except files containing information considered confidential under the provisions of the law relating to open records, Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, and Article 4512j, §24A, shall be open for inspection during regular office hours.

§741.14.Petition for Adoption of a Rule.

(a)

A person may submit a written petition to the board requesting adoption of a rule. The petition shall contain the following:

(1)

the petitioner's name, address, and telephone number;

(2)

a brief explanation of and justification for the proposed rule;

(3)

the text of the proposed rule prepared in a manner to indicate the words to be added or deleted from the current text, if any;

(4)

a statement of the statutory or other authority under which the rule is to be promulgated;

(5)

a statement of the public benefit anticipated as a result of adopting the rule or the anticipated injury or inequity which could result from the failure to adopt the proposed rule;

(6)

the cost of compliance for a small business, a microbusiness, or persons who are required to comply with the rules and the effect on local government;

(7)

a statement that details the financial impact on state and local government; and

(8)

a statement that details the probable effect of the rule on local employment.

(b)

The petition shall either be mailed to the Executive Secretary, State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3183, or hand delivered to the Executive Secretary, State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, 8407 Wall Street, Room S-420, Austin, Texas 78754.

(c)

The executive secretary shall submit the completed petition to the board for its consideration.

(d)

Within 60 days after receipt of the completed petition by the executive secretary, the board shall either:

(1)

deny the petition;

(2)

initiate rule-making procedures in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001; or

(3)

deny parts of the petition and/or institute rule-making procedures on parts of the petition.

(e)

If the board denies the petition, the executive secretary shall give the petitioner written notice of the board's denial, including the reason for the denial.

(f)

If the board initiates rule-making procedures, the version of the rule which the board proposes may differ from the version proposed by the petitioner.

(g)

All initial petitions for the adoption of a rule shall be presented to and decided by the board in accordance with the provisions of this section. The board may refuse to consider any subsequent petition for the adoption of the same or similar rule submitted within six months after the date of the initial petition.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004624

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


22 TAC §§741.13-741.26

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.13.Transaction of Official Business.

§741.14.Elections.

§741.15.Agendas.

§741.16.Meetings.

§741.17.Rules of Parliamentary Procedures.

§741.18.Minutes.

§741.19.Attendance.

§741.20.Official Records.

§741.21.Seal.

§741.22.Policy against Discrimination.

§741.23.Impartiality.

§741.24.Policy Regarding Handicapped or Disabled Applicants.

§741.25.Reimbursement for Expenses.

§741.26.Petition for Adoption of a Rule.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004625

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter C. SCREENING PROCEDURES

22 TAC §§741.31-741.33

The amendments and new rule are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These amendments and new rule affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.31.Communication Screening.

(a)

Communication screening should include cursory assessments of language and speech to determine if a delay or a disorder exists [ they may be deviant or not age appropriate ]. Formal instruments and informal observations may be used for the assessment. If the screening is not passed, a detailed evaluation is indicated.

(1)-(2)

(No change.)

(b)

Language [ Whenever possible, language ] and speech screening should be conducted in the client's native language.

§741.32.Hearing Screening.

(a)

The board defined hearing [ Hearing ] screening as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.052 and §401.053, [ as defined ] in §741.1(7) [ §741.2 ] of this title (relating to Definitions) and may be performed by :

(1)

licensed speech-language pathologists ; [ , ]

(2)

registered nurses licensed under the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; [ Texas Civil Statutes, Article 4513 et seq, ] and

(3)

by individuals who have received training from the Texas Department of Health Hearing Screening Program under Special Senses and Communication Disorders Act, Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36.

(b)

Hearing screening shall be performed and interpreted as follows.

(1)

Effective through August 31, 2001, use a screening level of [ Prior to August 1, 2000, hearing screening will be conducted as follows: ] 25 dB HL (re ANSI - 1989) at the frequencies of 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 hertz (Hz) in both ears .

[(1)

No response at the screening level at any two frequencies in either ear is the criterion for failure.]

[(2)

Two failures in one ear or one failure in each ear would be followed with a second pure-tone air conduction screening of the same frequencies at 25 dB HL (re ANSI - 1989) within three to four weeks.]

(2)

[ (c) ] Effective September 1, 2001, [ August 1, 2000, hearing screening will be conducted as follows: ] use a screening level of 25 [ 20 ] dB HL (re ANSI-1989) for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, and 20 dB HL (re ANSI-1989) for grades 1 through 12, at the frequencies of 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 hertz (Hz) in both ears .

(A)

The criterion for failure is no response at the screening level at any one frequency in either ear.

[(1)

No response at the screening level at any one frequency in either ear is the criterion for failure.]

(B)

Screening failures will be followed with a second pure-tone air conduction screening utilizing the same protocol within three to four weeks.

[(2)

One failure in either ear would be followed with a second pure-tone air conduction screening of the same frequencies at 20 dB HL (re ANSI-1989) within three to four weeks.]

(c)

[ (d) ] If the second pure-tone air conduction screening [ described in subsection (b)(2) or (c)(2) of this section ] is failed, a recommendation shall be made for a professional evaluation [ of hearing ] by a licensed physician or a licensed audiologist. If the person screened [ tested ] was a minor, the recommendation shall be made to a parent or guardian. At that time an extended recheck as defined in §741.1(4) of this title (relating to Definitions) may be performed by the screener.

§741.33.Newborn Hearing Screening.

Individuals licensed as speech-language pathologists, interns in speech-language pathology, or assistants in speech-language pathology may participate in universal newborn hearing screening as defined by the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 47.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004626

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter C. TESTING PROCEDURES AND EQUIPMENT

22 TAC §741.33

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeal is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

The repeal affects the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.33.Stationary Acoustical Enclosure for the Purpose of Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004627

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter D. THE STANDARDS OF PROFESSIONAL AND ETHICAL CONDUCT

22 TAC §741.41

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeal is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

The repeal affects the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.41.Code of Ethics.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004628

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


22 TAC §741.41

The new section is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

The new section affects the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.41.Code of Ethics.

(a)

A licensee or registrant shall:

(1)

seek appropriate medical consultation whenever indicated;

(2)

seek to identify competent, dependable referral sources for clients;

(3)

maintain objectivity in all matters concerning the welfare of the client;

(4)

terminate a professional relationship when it is reasonably clear that the client is not benefiting from the services being provided; and

(5)

provide accurate information to clients and the public about the nature and management of communicative disorders and about the profession and the services rendered.

(b)

A licensee or registrant shall not:

(1)

engage in the medical treatment of speech-language and hearing disorders;

(2)

guarantee, directly or by implication, the results of any therapeutic procedures as follows:

(A)

a reasonable statement of prognosis may be made; and

(B)

caution must be exercised not to mislead clients to expect results that cannot be predicted from reliable evidence;

(3)

delegate any service requiring professional competence of a licensee or registrant to anyone not licensed or registered for the performance of that service;

(4)

provide services if the services can not be provided with reasonable skill or safety to the client;

(5)

provide any services which create an unreasonable risk that the client may be mentally or physically harmed;

(6)

engage in sexual contact, including intercourse, kissing or fondling, with a client or an assistant, intern, or student supervised by the licensee or registrant;

(7)

use alcohol or drugs when the use adversely affects or could adversely affect the licensee's or registrant's provision of professional services;

(8)

evaluate or treat speech, language, or hearing disorders solely by correspondence;

(9)

reveal, without authorization, any professional or personal information about the person served professionally, unless required by law to do so, or unless doing so is necessary to protect the welfare of the person or of the community;

(10)

participate in activities that constitute a conflict of professional interest which may include the following:

(A)

the exclusive recommendation of a product that the individual owns or has produced;

(B)

lack of accuracy in the performance description of a product a licensee or registrant has developed; or

(C)

the restriction of freedom of choice for sources of services or products;

(11)

use his or her professional relationship with a client, intern, assistant, or student to promote for personal gain or profit any item, procedure, or service unless the licensee or registrant has disclosed to the client, intern, assistant, or student the nature of the licensee's or registrant's personal gain or profit; and

(12)

misrepresent his or her training or competence.

(c)

A licensee or registrant shall fully inform clients of the:

(1)

results, in writing, of an evaluation within 60 days;

(2)

nature and possible effects of the services rendered; and

(3)

nature and possible effects of activities if the client is participating in research or teaching activities.

(d)

A licensee or registrant shall not present false, misleading, deceptive, or not readily verifiable information relating to the services of the licensee or registrant or any person supervised or employed by the licensee or registrant which includes, but is not limited to:

(1)

use of professional or commercial affiliations in any way that would mislead clients or the public;

(2)

presenting false, misleading, or deceptive information in connection with an application by the licensee or registrant for a license issued under the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, or for employment to provide speech-language pathology or audiology services;

(3)

presenting false, misleading, or deceptive information relating to the following:

(A)

any advertisement, announcement, or presentation;

(B)

any announcement of services;

(C)

letterhead or business cards;

(D)

commercial products; or

(E)

billing statements;

(4)

presenting false, misleading, or deceptive advertising that is not readily subject to verification includes advertising that:

(A)

makes a material misrepresentation of fact or omits a fact necessary to make the statement as a whole not materially misleading;

(B)

makes a representation likely to create an unjustified expectation about the results of a health care service or procedure;

(C)

compares a health care professional's services with another health care professional's services unless the comparison can be factually substantiated;

(D)

contains a testimonial;

(E)

causes confusion or misunderstanding as to the credentials, education, or licensure of a health care professional;

(F)

advertises or represents that health care insurance deductibles or co-payments may be waived or are not applicable to health care services to be provided if the deductibles or co-payments are required;

(G)

advertises or represents that the benefits of a health benefit plan will be accepted as full payment when deductibles or co-payments are required;

(H)

makes a representation that is designed to take advantage of the fears or emotions of a particularly susceptible type of patient; and

(I)

advertises or represents in the use of a professional name, a title, or professional identification that is expressly or commonly reserved to or used by another profession or professional.

(e)

A licensee or registrant shall maintain accurate records of professional services rendered as follows:

(1)

records must be maintained for seven consecutive years;

(2)

records are the responsibility and property of the entity or individual who owns the practice or the practice setting; and

(3)

records created as a result of treatment in a school setting shall be maintained as part of the student's permanent school record.

(f)

A licensee or registrant shall make a reasonable attempt to notify each client of the name, mailing address, and telephone number of the board for the purpose of directing complaints to the board by providing notification on:

(1)

a sign prominently displayed in the primary place of business of each licensee; and

(2)

a written document such as a written contract, a bill for service, or office information brochure provided by a licensee or registrant to a client or third party.

(g)

A licensee or registrant shall bill a client or a third party only for the services actually rendered in the manner agreed to by the licensee or registrant and the client or the client's authorized representative and shall:

(1)

provide, in plain language, a written explanation of the charges for speech-language pathology and/or audiology services previously made on a bill or statement for the client upon the written request of a client, a client's guardian, or a client's parent, if the client is a minor; and

(2)

comply with the Health and Safety Code, §311.0025, which prohibits improper, unreasonable, or medically unnecessary billing by hospitals or health care professionals.

(h)

A licensee or registrant shall inform the board of violations of this code of ethics or of any other provision of the chapter by:

(1)

complying with any order relating to the licensee or registrant which is issued by the board;

(2)

not aiding or abetting the practice of an unlicensed person when that person is required to have a license or registration under the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401;

(3)

reporting in accordance with the Family Code, §261.101(b), if there is cause to believe that a child's physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected by abuse or neglect by any person;

(4)

not interfering with a board investigation or disciplinary proceeding by willful misrepresentation of facts to the board or the board's designee or by the use of threats or harassment against any person; and

(5)

cooperating with the board by furnishing required documents or papers and by responding to a request for information from or a subpoena issued by the board or the board's designee within 30 days of the request.

(i)

A supervisor of an intern or assistant shall:

(1)

ensure that all services provided are in compliance with this chapter and the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, such as verifying:

(A)

the intern or assistant holds a license;

(B)

the supervisor has been approved by the board office;

(C)

the scope of practice is appropriate; and

(D)

the intern or assistant is qualified to perform the procedure;

(2)

be responsible for all client services performed by the intern or assistant;

(3)

provide appropriate supervision after the board office approved the supervisory arrangement; and

(4)

limit the number of interns and assistants being supervised to a combination of no more than four individuals. Non-compliance with this requirement shall require submission to the board office of proof of need, in writing, to be evaluated and approved on a case-by-case basis by the board's designee.

(j)

In addition to the provisions listed in subsection (i) of this section, a supervisor of an assistant shall:

(1)

be responsible for evaluations, interpretation, and case management of the assistant's clients; and

(2)

not designate anyone other than a licensed speech-language pathologist or intern in speech-language pathology to represent speech-language pathology to an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD).

(k)

A licensed intern or assistant shall abide by the decisions made by the supervisor relating to the intern's or assistant's scope of practice. In the event the supervisor requests that the intern or assistant violate this chapter; the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; or any other law, the intern or assistant shall refuse to do so and immediately notify the board office and any other appropriate authority.

(l)

A licensee or registrant shall not intentionally or knowingly offer to pay or agree to accept any remuneration directly or indirectly, overtly or covertly, in cash or in kind, to or from any person, firm, association of persons, partnership, or corporation for securing or soliciting patients or patronage for or from any health care professional. The provisions of the Health and Safety Code, §161.091, concerning the prohibition of illegal remuneration apply to licensees.

(m)

A licensee or registrant who provides direct patient care shall comply with the Health and Safety Code, Chapter 85, Subchapter I, concerning the prevention of the transmission of HIV or Hepatitis B virus by infected health care workers.

(n)

A licensee or registrant shall be subject to disciplinary action by the board if the licensee or registrant is issued a public letter of reprimand, is assessed a civil penalty by a court, or has an administrative penalty imposed by the attorney general's office under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 56.31, relating to the Crime Victims Compensation Act.

(o)

A licensee's or registrant's renewal shall be subject to the Family Code, Chapter 232, concerning failure to pay child support.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004629

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter E. REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE AND REGISTRATION OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS

22 TAC §§741.61, 741.62, 741.64, 741.65, 741.67

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.61.Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License.

§741.62.Requirements for an Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License.

§741.64.Requirements for a Provisional Speech-Language Pathology License.

§741.65.Requirements for an Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology License.

§741.67.Requirements for a Limited License To Practice Speech-Language Pathology in the Public Schools.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004630

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


22 TAC §§741.61-741.66

The amendments new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These amendments and new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.61.Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License.

(a)

An applicant for the speech-language pathology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.304 and §401.305, and this section.

(b)

The graduate degree shall be completed at a college or university which has a program accredited by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation and holds accreditation or candidacy status from a recognized regional accrediting agency.

(1)

Original or certified copies of transcripts shall verify the applicant completed the following with a grade of "C" or above:

(A)

at least 36 semester credit hours shall be in professional course work acceptable toward a graduate degree with at least 30 semester credit hours awarded graduate credit;

(B)

at least 24 semester credit hours acceptable toward a graduate degree shall be earned in the area of speech-language pathology as follows:

(i)

six graduate semester credit hours in speech disorders;

(ii)

six graduate semester credit hours in language disorders; and

(iii)

other graduate semester credit hours in courses that include information on the understanding, evaluation, treatment, and prevention of communication disorders across all age spans in a variety of disorders; and

(C)

six semester credit hours shall be earned in the area of audiology as follows:

(i)

three semester credit hours in hearing disorders and hearing evaluation; and

(ii)

three semester credit hours in habilitative or rehabilitative procedures with individuals who have hearing impairment.

(2)

A maximum of six academic semester credit hours associated with clinical experience and a maximum of six academic semester credit hours associated with a thesis or dissertation may be counted toward the 36 hours but not in lieu of the requirements of paragraphs (1)(B) and (1)(C) of this subsection.

(3)

Semester credit hours earned prior to the date the baccalaureate degree is granted are not acceptable as meeting the requirement of paragraph (1)(B) of this subsection.

(4)

A quarter hour of academic credit shall be considered as two-thirds of a semester credit hour.

(5)

An applicant who possesses a master's degree with a major in audiology and is pursuing a license in speech-language pathology may apply if the board has an original transcript showing completion of a master's degree with a major in audiology on file and a letter from the program director or designee of the college or university stating that the individual completed enough hours to establish a graduate level major in speech-language pathology and would meet the academic and clinical experience requirements for a license as a speech-language pathologist.

(6)

An applicant who graduated from a college or university not accredited by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation shall have the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Clinical Certification Board evaluate the course work and clinical experience earned to determine if acceptable. The applicant shall bear all expenses incurred during the procedure.

(c)

An applicant shall complete at least 25 clock hours of supervised observation before completing the minimum of the following hours of supervised clinical experience, which may be referred to as clinical practicum, with individuals who present a variety of communication disorders within an educational institution or in one of its cooperating programs:

(1)

275 clock hours if the master's degree was earned prior to November 10, 1993; or

(2)

350 clock hours if the master's degree was earned on or after November 10, 1993.

(d)

An applicant shall obtain 36 weeks of full-time, or its part-time equivalent, of supervised professional experience in which bona fide clinical work has been accomplished in speech-language pathology as set out in §741.62 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License).

(1)

An individual shall be licensed under §741.62 of this title prior to the beginning of the supervised professional experience.

(2)

The supervisor of an individual who completed an internship in another state and met the requirements set out in §741.62 of this title shall:

(A)

be licensed in that other state, rather than Texas; or

(B)

hold the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology if the other state did not require licensing.

(e)

An applicant shall pass the examination as referenced by §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) within:

(1)

the past 10 years; and

(2)

two years of the completion date of the internship referenced in subsection (d) of this section.

(f)

In the event the applicant passed the examination referenced in subsection (e) of this section more than two years after the completion date of the internship, the applicant shall repeat the 36 weeks supervised internship before applying for the speech-language pathology license. The applicant shall obtain the intern license as required by §741.62 of this title prior to repeating the internship.

(g)

An applicant who previously held the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Certificate of Clinical Competence may have the certificate reinstated and apply for licensure under §741.63 of this title (relating to Waiver of Licensure for Speech-Language Pathologists).

§741.62.Requirements for an Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License.

(a)

An applicant for the intern in speech-language pathology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.311, and §741.61(a)-(c) of this title (relating to Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License) within 10 years of the date of application for the intern license.

(b)

In the event the course work and clinical experience set out in subsection (a) of this section were earned more than 10 years before the date of application for the intern license, the applicant shall submit proof of current knowledge of the practice of speech-language pathology to be evaluated by the board's designee. If an applicant is required to earn additional course work or continuing professional education hours, §741.193 of this title (relating to Formal Hearings; Surrender of License or Registration) shall not apply. The applicant may reapply for the license when the requirements of this section are met.

(c)

An original or certified copy of the transcripts is required and shall be evaluated under §741.61(b) of this title.

(d)

An applicant who successfully completed all academic and clinical requirements of §741.61(a)-(c) of this title but who has not had the degree officially conferred may be licensed as an intern in order to begin the supervised professional experience but shall submit an original or certified copy of a letter from the program director or designee verifying the applicant has met all academic course work, clinical experience requirements, and completed a thesis or passed a comprehensive examination, if required, and is awaiting the date of next graduation for the degree to be conferred. This letter is in addition to transcripts required in subsection (c) of this section.

(e)

An applicant whose master's degree is received at a college or university accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation will receive automatic approval of the course work and clinical experience if the program director or designee verifies that all requirements as outlined in §741.61(a)-(c) of this title have been met and review of the transcript shows that the applicant has successfully completed at least 24 semester credit hours acceptable toward a graduate degree in the area of speech-language pathology with six hours in audiology.

(f)

An intern plan and agreement of supervision form shall be completed and signed by both the applicant and the licensed speech-language pathologist who agrees to assume responsibility for all services provided by the intern. The supervisor shall hold a valid Texas license in speech-language pathology and possess a master's degree with a major in one of the areas of communicative sciences and disorders.

(1)

Approval from the board office shall be required prior to practice by the intern. The form shall be submitted upon:

(A)

application for a license;

(B)

license renewal;

(C)

changes in supervision; and

(D)

when other supervisors are added.

(2)

In the event more than one licensed speech-language pathologist agrees to supervise the intern, the primary supervisor shall be identified and separate forms submitted by each supervisor.

(3)

An intern may renew the license without submitting a new form but may not practice.

(4)

In the event the supervisor ceases supervision of the intern, the intern shall stop practicing immediately.

(5)

Should the intern practice without approval from the board office, disciplinary action shall be initiated against the intern. If the supervisor had knowledge of this violation, disciplinary action against the supervisor shall also be initiated.

(g)

The internship shall:

(1)

begin within four years after the academic and clinical experience requirements as required by subsection (a) of this section have been met;

(2)

be completed within a maximum period of 36 consecutive months once initiated;

(3)

consist of 36 weeks of full-time, or its part-time equivalent, of supervised professional experience in which bona fide clinical work has been accomplished in speech-language pathology. Full-time employment is defined as a maximum of 30 hours per week in direct patient/client clinical work. Part-time equivalent is defined as follows:

(A)

0-15 hours per week--no credit will be given;

(B)

15-19 hours per week for over 72 weeks;

(C)

20-24 hours per week for over 60 weeks; or

(D)

25-29 hours per week for over 48 weeks;

(4)

involve primarily clinical activities such as assessment, diagnosis, evaluation, screening, treatment, report writing, family/client consultation, and/or counseling related to the management process of individuals who exhibit communication disabilities;

(5)

be divided into three segments with no fewer than 36 clock hours of supervisory activities to include:

(A)

six face-to-face observations per segment by the board approved supervisor of the intern's direct client contact at the worksite in which the intern provides screening, evaluation, assessment, habilitation, and rehabilitation; and

(B)

six other monitoring activities per segment with the board approved supervisor which may include correspondence, review of videotapes, evaluation of written reports, phone conferences with the intern, evaluations by professional colleagues; and

(6)

not be initiated if other options to complete the supervisory process set out in paragraph (5) of this section are requested unless approval by the board's designee is granted. The supervisor shall provide a detailed plan of supervision, in writing, with the request.

(h)

An applicant who does not meet the time frames defined in subsection (g)(1)-(2) of this section shall request an extension, in writing, explaining the reason for the request. The board's designee shall determine if the internship:

(1)

should be revised or extended; and

(2)

whether additional course work, continuing professional education hours, or passing the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) is required.

(i)

During each segment of the internship, the primary supervisor shall conduct a formal evaluation of the intern's progress in the development of professional skills. Documentation of this evaluation shall be maintained by both parties for three years or until the speech-language pathology license is granted. The board may request a copy of this documentation.

(j)

Prior to implementing changes in the internship, approval from the board office is required.

(1)

If the intern changes his or her supervisor or adds additional supervisors, a current intern plan and agreement of supervision form shall be submitted by the new supervisor and approved by the board before the intern may resume practice. A report of completed internship form shall be completed by the past supervisor and intern and submitted to the board office upon completion of that portion of the internship. The board office shall evaluate the form and inform the intern of the results.

(2)

If the intern changes his or her employer but the supervisor and the number of hours employed per week remain the same, the supervisor shall submit a signed statement giving the name, address and phone number of the new location.

(3)

If the number of hours worked per week changes but the supervisor and the location remain the same, the supervisor shall submit a signed statement giving the date the change occurred and the number of hours per week the intern is now working. A report of completed internship form shall be submitted for the past experience, clearly indicating the number of hours worked per week.

(k)

Any reference to the licensee's title shall state clearly that the license status is that of an intern in speech-language pathology.

(l)

An intern who completed the 36 weeks of full-time, or its part-time equivalent, of supervised professional experience as defined in subsection (g) of this section and wishes to continue to practice, shall apply for either:

(1)

a speech-language pathology license under §741.61 of this title if the intern passed the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title; or

(2)

a temporary certificate of registration under §741.66 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Temporary Certificate of Registration in Speech-Language Pathology) if the intern has not passed the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title.

(m)

The intern may continue to practice under supervision if he or she holds a valid intern license while awaiting the processing of the speech-language pathology license or the temporary certificate of registration in speech-language pathology as follows:

(1)

The current supervisor shall submit a signed statement agreeing to supervise the intern from the "Ending Date of Internship" as shown on the report of completed internship form until the intern receives either the speech-language pathology license or the temporary certificate of registration.

(2)

If the intern changes supervisors, the new supervisor shall first submit the intern plan and agreement of supervision form and receive board approval before the intern may resume practice.

Waiver [ Special Conditions ] of [ for ] Licensure for [ of ] Speech-Language Pathologists.

An applicant for the speech-language pathology license seeking to waive the requirements as set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.308(f), and §741.61 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License) shall be issued the license if the applicant holds the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology [ The board may waive the educational, professional, and examination requirements and grant licensure to an applicant who holds the certificate of clinical competence of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in speech-language pathology ]. An original or certified copy of transcript(s) shall be required.

§741.64.Requirements for a Provisional Speech-Language Pathology License.

(a)

An applicant for the provisional speech-language pathology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.308(a)-(e), and this section.

(b)

An applicant who did not pass a state validated examination required for licensure in speech-language pathology shall be required to pass the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) within the past ten years.

(c)

An applicant shall submit proof as defined in §741.112(d) of this title (relating to Required Application Materials) and, if found acceptable, the provisional license shall be issued to expire in 180 days.

(d)

To obtain the speech-language pathology license, the provisional license holder shall submit before expiration date of the provisional license documentation defined in either:

(1)

Section 741.112(a)(3)-(6) of this title that all requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.304 and §401.305, and §741.61 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License) have been met; or

(2)

Section 741.112(c)(3) and (4) of this title if the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology is acquired.

(e)

The provisional license holder shall cease practicing if the documentation required by subsection (d) of this section is not received and approved by the board within 180 days of the issuance of the provisional license.

§741.65.Requirements for an Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology License.

(a)

An applicant for an assistant in speech-language pathology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.312, and this section within 10 years of the date of application for the assistant license.

(b)

An assistant is an individual who provides speech-language pathology support services to clinical programs under supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist and meets the following requirements:

(1)

possesses a baccalaureate degree with an emphasis in communicative sciences and disorders;

(2)

acquired no fewer than 24 semester hours in speech-language pathology and/or audiology, at least 18 of which must be in speech-language pathology core curriculum and excludes clinical experience and course work such as special education, deaf education, or sign language; and

(3)

earned no fewer than 25 hours of clinical observation in the area of speech-language pathology and 25 hours of clinical assisting experience in the area of speech-language pathology obtained within an educational institution or in one of its cooperating programs.

(c)

The baccalaureate degree shall be completed at a college or university which has a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation or holds accreditation or candidacy status from a recognized regional accrediting agency.

(1)

Original or certified copy of transcripts shall be submitted and reviewed as follows:

(A)

only course work completed within the past 10 years with a grade of "C" or above is acceptable;

(B)

a quarter hour of academic credit shall be considered as two-thirds of a semester credit hour; and

(C)

academic courses, the titles of which are not self-explanatory, shall be substantiated through course descriptions in official school catalogs or bulletins or by other official means.

(2)

In the event the course work and clinical experience set out in subsection (b) of this section were earned more than 10 years before the date of application for the assistant license, the applicant shall submit proof of current knowledge of the practice of speech-language pathology to be evaluated by the board's designee. If an applicant is required to earn additional course work or continuing professional education hours, §741.193 of this title (relating to Formal Hearings; Surrender of License or Registration) shall not apply. The applicant may reapply for the license when the requirements of this section are met.

(d)

An applicant who possesses a baccalaureate degree with a major that is not in communicative sciences and disorders may qualify for the assistant license. The board's designee shall evaluate transcripts on a case-by-case basis to ensure equivalent academic preparation and shall determine if the applicant satisfactorily completed 24 graduate hours in communicative sciences or disorders which may include some leveling hours.

(e)

An applicant who has not acquired the hours referenced in subsection (b)(3) of this section shall not meet the minimum qualifications for the assistant license. Other than acquiring the 25 hours of clinical observation and the 25 hours of clinical assisting experience through an accredited college or university, there are no other exemptions in the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, for an applicant to acquire the hours. The applicant shall first obtain the assistant license by submitting the forms, fees, and documentation referenced in §741.112(e) of this title (relating to Required Application Material) and include a clinical deficiency plan to acquire the clinical observation and clinical assisting experience hours lacking.

(1)

The licensed speech-language pathologist who will provide the assistant with the training to acquire these hours shall submit:

(A)

the supervisory responsibility statement form; and

(B)

a clinical deficiency plan that shall include the following:

(i)

name and signature of the assistant;

(ii)

name, qualifications, and signature of the licensed speech-language pathologist trainer;

(iii)

number of hours of observation and/or assisting experience lacking;

(iv)

statement that the training shall be conducted under 100% direct, face-to-face supervision of the assistant; and

(v)

list of training, consistent with subsection (h) of this section, that shall be completed.

(2)

The board office shall evaluate the documentation and fees submitted to determine if the assistant license shall be issued. Additional information or revisions may be required before approval is granted.

(3)

The clinical deficiency plan shall be completed within 60 days of the issue date of the license or the assistant shall be considered to have voluntarily surrendered the license.

(4)

Immediately upon completion of the clinical deficiency plan, the trainer identified in the plan shall submit:

(A)

a supervision log that verifies the specific times and dates in which the hours were acquired with a brief description of the training conducted during each session;

(B)

a rating scale of the assistant's performance; and

(C)

a signed statement that the assistant successfully completed the clinical observation and clinical assisting experience under his or her 100% direct, face-to-face supervision of the assistant. This statement shall specify the number of hours completed and verify completion of the training identified in the clinical deficiency plan.

(5)

In addition to paragraph (4) of this subsection, the assistant shall submit an original signed statement listing the duties that an assistant may and may not perform and acknowledge understanding that the supervisory responsibility statement form shall be received and approved by board staff in order for the assistant to practice.

(6)

Board staff shall evaluate the documentation required in paragraphs (4) and (5) of this subsection and inform the assistant and trainer if acceptable.

(7)

An assistant may continue to practice under supervision of the trainer while the board office evaluates the documentation identified in paragraphs (4) and (5) of this subsection.

(8)

In the event, another licensed speech-language pathologist shall supervise the assistant after completion of the clinical deficiency plan, a supervisory responsibility statement form shall be submitted to the board office seeking approval for the change in supervision. If the documentation required by paragraphs (4) and (5) of this subsection has not been received and approved by the board office, approval for the change in supervision shall not be granted.

(f)

A supervisory responsibility statement form shall be completed and signed by both the applicant and the licensed speech-language pathologist who agrees to assume responsibility for all services provided by the assistant.

(1)

Approval from the board office shall be required prior to practice by the assistant. The form shall be submitted upon:

(A)

application for a license;

(B)

license renewal;

(C)

changes in supervision; and

(D)

when other supervisors are added.

(2)

In the event more than one licensed speech-language pathologist agrees to supervise the assistant, the primary supervisor shall be identified and separate forms submitted by each supervisor.

(3)

An assistant may renew the license without submitting a new form but may not practice.

(4)

In the event the supervisor ceases supervision of the assistant, the assistant shall stop practicing immediately.

(5)

Should the assistant practice without approval from the board office, disciplinary action shall be initiated against the assistant. If the supervisor had knowledge of this violation, disciplinary against the supervisor shall also be initiated.

(g)

Direct supervision of speech-language pathology duties assigned to the assistant shall be provided by a licensed speech-language pathologist.

(1)

Diagnostic contacts shall be conducted by the supervising licensed speech-language pathologist. This contact may include evaluation of the client.

(2)

Following the diagnostic contact, the supervising speech-language pathologist shall determine whether the assistant has the competence to perform specific duties before delegating tasks.

(3)

The supervising speech-language pathologist shall provide the minimum of no less than two hours per week, at least half of which is face-to-face supervision, at the location where the assistant is employed. This applies whether the assistant's practice is full or part-time.

(4)

Indirect methods of supervision may include audio and/or video tape recording, telephone communication, numerical data, or other means of reporting.

(5)

An exception to paragraph (3) of this subsection may be requested. The supervising speech-language pathologist shall submit a proposed plan of supervision for review by the board's designee. The plan shall be for not more than one year's duration and shall include:

(A)

the name of the assistant;

(B)

the name and signature of the supervisor;

(C)

the proposed plan of supervision;

(D)

the exact time frame for the proposed plan;

(E)

the length of time the assistant has been practicing under the requestor's supervision; and

(F)

the reason the request is necessary.

(6)

If the exception referenced in paragraph (5) of this subsection is approved and the reason continues to exist, the licensed supervising speech-language pathologist shall annually resubmit a request to be evaluated by the board's designee.

(7)

Supervisory records shall be maintained by the licensed speech-language pathologist which verify regularly scheduled monitoring, assessment, and evaluation of the assistant's and client's performance. Such documentation may be requested by the board.

(A)

An assistant may conduct assessments which includes data collection, clinical observation and routine test administration if the assistant has been appropriately trained and the assessments are conducted under the direction of the supervisor.

(B)

An assistant may not conduct an evaluation which includes diagnostic testing, test and observation interpretation, diagnosis, decision making, statement of severity or implication, case selection or case load decisions.

(h)

Although the licensed supervising speech-language pathologist may delegate specific clinical tasks to an assistant, the responsibility to the client for all services provided cannot be delegated. The licensed speech-language pathologist shall ensure that all services provided are in compliance with this chapter.

(1)

The licensed speech-language pathologist need not be present when the assistant is completing the assigned tasks; however, the licensed speech-language pathologist shall document all services provided and the supervision of the assistant.

(2)

The licensed speech-language pathologist shall keep job descriptions and performance records. Records shall be current and made available to the board within 30 days of the date of the board's request for such records.

(3)

The assistant may execute specific components of the clinical speech, language, and/or hearing program if the licensed speech-language pathologist determines that the assistant has received the training and has the skill to accomplish that task, and the licensed speech-language pathologist provides sufficient supervision to ensure appropriate completion of the task assigned to the assistant.

(4)

Examples of duties which an assistant may be assigned by the speech-language pathologist who agreed to accept responsibility for the services provided by the assistant, provided appropriate training has been received, are to:

(A)

conduct or participate in speech, language, and/or hearing screening;

(B)

implement the treatment program or the individual education plan (IEP) designed by the licensed speech-language pathologist;

(C)

provide carry-over activities which are the therapeutically designed transfer of a newly acquired communication ability to other contexts and situations;

(D)

collect data;

(E)

administer routine tests as defined by the board;

(F)

maintain clinical records;

(G)

prepare clinical materials; and

(H)

participate with the licensed speech-language pathologist in research projects, staff development, public relations programs, or similar activities as designated and supervised by the licensed speech-language pathologist.

(5)

The assistant shall not:

(A)

conduct evaluations even under supervision since this is a diagnostic and decision making activity;

(B)

interpret results of routine tests;

(C)

interpret observations or data into diagnostic statements, clinical management strategies, or procedures;

(D)

present speech-language pathology at staff meetings or on an admission, review and dismissal (ARD);

(E)

attend staffing meeting or ARD without the supervisor being present;

(F)

design a treatment program or individual education plan (IEP);

(G)

determine case selection;

(H)

present written or oral reports of client information;

(I)

refer a client to other professionals or other agencies;

(J)

use any title which connotes the competency of a licensed speech-language pathologist; or

(K)

practice as an assistant in speech-language pathology without a valid supervisory responsibility statement on file in the board office.

(i)

A licensed assistant in speech-language pathology may attend staff meetings or admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) without the presence of the licensed speech-language pathology supervisor if speech-language pathology consultation or deliberation is not required, provided the following conditions are met:

(1)

The supervisor shall:

(A)

verify and document that the assistant has practiced as an assistant in Texas for three or more years or the equivalent time of practice in another state;

(B)

verify and document the competency of the assistant;

(C)

sign agreement to all ARD's; and

(D)

sign and consult with the assistant on all reports.

(2)

If all conditions stipulated in paragraph (1) of this subsection are met, the supervisor may allow the assistant to:

(A)

participate in routine monitoring or to schedule changes;

(B)

present written reports signed by the licensed speech-language pathologist at staff meetings; and

(C)

present the speech-language pathologist's written recommendation for routine dismissal or admission if all parties are in agreement.

(3)

The assistant shall not sign the ARD form as the speech-language pathology representative.

(j)

Any reference to the licensee's title shall state clearly that the license status is that of an assistant in speech-language pathology.

(k)

The board shall audit 10% of licensed assistants each month for compliance with this section and §741.41 of this title (relating to the Code of Ethics).

(1)

The board shall notify an assistant by mail that he or she has been selected for an audit.

(2)

Upon receipt of an audit notification, the assistant and the licensed speech-language pathologist who agreed to accept responsibility for the services provided by the assistant shall mail the requested proof of compliance to the board.

(3)

A licensee and supervisor shall comply with the board's request for documentation and information concerning compliance with the audit.

§741.66.Requirements for a Temporary Certificate of Registration in Speech-Language Pathology.

(a)

An applicant for a [ A ] temporary certificate of registration in speech- language pathology shall meet the requirements of the Texas Occupations Code, §401.310, and [ may be applied for by an individual who submits original or certified copy of documentation that all requirements referenced in ] §741.61 (a)-(d) [ (1)-(12) ] of this title (relating to Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License) [ have been met but who has not previously applied to the board to take the examination for licensure as required by §741.122 of this title (relating to Administration) ].

(b)

If issued, this certificate entitles an applicant approved for examination as required by §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) to practice speech-language pathology for a period of time ending eight weeks after the next scheduled examination [ offering of the next examination after the date of issue of the certificate ].

(c)

(No change.)

§741.67.Requirements for a Limited License to Practice Speech-Language Pathology in the Public Schools.

An applicant who applied for the limited licenses to practice speech-language pathology in the public schools on or before September 1, 1996; met the requirements of the Texas Occupations Code, §401.314; and was engaged in the practice of speech-language pathology within two years prior to September 1, 1983, was issued the limited license. The license may be renewed as set out in §741.161 of this title (relating to Renewal Procedures) annually; however, the license shall not be renewed past January 1, 2003.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004631

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter F. REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE AND REGISTRATION OF AUDIOLOGISTS

22 TAC §§741.81, 741.82, 741.84, 741.85, 741.87

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.81.Requirements for an Audiology License.

§741.82.Requirements for an Intern in Audiology License.

§741.84.Requirements for a Provisional Audiology License.

§741.85.Requirements for an Assistant in Audiology License.

§741.87.Requirements for Registration of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004632

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


22 TAC §§741.81-741.86

The new sections and amendments are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These new sections and amendments affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.81.Requirements for an Audiology License.

(a)

An applicant for the audiology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.304 and §401.305, and this section.

(b)

The graduate degree shall be completed at a college or university which has a program accredited by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation and holds accreditation or candidacy status from a recognized regional accrediting agency.

(1)

Original or certified copies of transcripts shall verify the applicant completed the following with a grade of "C" or above:

(A)

at least 36 semester credit hours shall be in professional course work acceptable toward a graduate degree with at least 30 semester credit hours awarded graduate credit;

(B)

at least 24 semester credit hours acceptable toward a graduate degree shall be earned in the area of audiology as follows:

(i)

six graduate semester credit hours in hearing disorders and hearing evaluation;

(ii)

six graduate semester credit hours in habilitative/rehabilitative procedures with individuals who have hearing impairment; and

(iii)

other graduate semester credit hours in courses that include information on hearing disorders, hearing evaluations, habilitative/rehabilitative procedures, and preventive methods including the study of auditory disorders and habilitative/rehabilitative procedures across the life span; and

(C)

six semester credit hours shall be earned in the area of speech-language pathology as follows:

(i)

three semester credit hours in speech disorders; and

(ii)

three semester credit hours in language disorders.

(2)

A maximum of six academic semester credit hours associated with clinical experience and a maximum of six academic semester credit hours associated with a thesis or dissertation may be counted toward the 36 hours but not in lieu of the requirements of paragraphs (1)(B) and (1)(C) of this subsection.

(3)

Semester credit hours earned prior to the date the baccalaureate degree is granted are not acceptable as meeting the requirement of paragraph (1)(B) of this subsection.

(4)

A quarter hour of academic credit shall be considered as two-thirds of a semester credit hour.

(5)

An applicant who possesses a master's degree with a major in speech-language pathology and is pursuing a license in audiology may apply if the board has an original transcript showing completion of a master's degree with a major in speech-language pathology on file and a letter from the program director or designee of the college or university stating that the individual completed enough hours to establish a graduate level major in audiology and would meet the academic and clinical experience requirements for a license as an audiologist.

(6)

An applicant who graduated from a college or university not accredited by the American Speech-Lanugage Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation shall have the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Clinical Certification Board evaluate the course work and clinical experience earned to determine if acceptable. The applicant shall bear all expenses incurred during the procedure.

(c)

An applicant shall complete at least 25 clock hours of supervised observation before completing the minimum of the following hours of supervised clinical experience, which may be referred to as clinical practicum, with individuals who present a variety of communication disorders within an educational institution or in one of its cooperating programs:

(1)

275 clock hours if the master's degree was earned prior to November 10, 1993; or

(2)

350 clock hours if the master's degree was earned on or after November 10, 1993.

(d)

An applicant shall obtain 36 weeks of full-time, or its part-time equivalent, of supervised professional experience in which bona fide clinical work has been accomplished in audiology as set out in §741.82 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Intern in Audiology License).

(1)

An individual shall be licensed under §741.82 of this title prior to the beginning of the supervised professional experience.

(2)

The supervisor of an individual who completed an internship in another state and met the requirements set out in §741.82 of this title shall:

(A)

be licensed in that other state, rather than Texas; or

(B)

hold the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence in audiology if the other state did not require licensing.

(e)

An applicant shall pass the examination as referenced by §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) within:

(1)

the past 10 years; and

(2)

two years of the completion date of the internship referenced in subsection (d) of this section.

(f)

In the event the applicant passed the examination referenced in subsection (e) of this section more than two years after the completion date of the internship, the applicant shall repeat the 36 weeks supervised internship before applying for the audiology license. The applicant shall obtain the intern license as required by §741.62 of this title (relating to Requirments for an Intern in Speech-Language Pathology Lincense) prior to repeating the internship.

(g)

An applicant who previously held the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Certificate of Clinical Competence may have the certificate reinstated and apply for licensure under §741.83 of this title (relating to Waiver of Licensure for Audiologists).

§741.82.Requirements for an Intern in Audiology License.

(a)

An applicant for the intern in audiology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.311, and §741.81 (a)-(c) of this title (relating to Requirements for an Audiology License) within 10 years of the date of application for the intern license.

(b)

In the event the course work and clinical experience set out in subsection (a) of this section were earned more than 10 years before the date of application for the intern license, the applicant shall submit proof of current knowledge of the practice of audiology to be evaluated by the board's designee. If an applicant is required to earn additional course work or continuing professional education hours, §741.193 of this title (relating to Formal Hearings; Surrender of License or Registration) shall not apply. The applicant may reapply for the license when the requirements of this section are met.

(c)

An original or certified copy of the transcripts is required and shall be evaluated under §741.81(b) of this title.

(d)

An applicant who has successfully completed all academic and clinical requirements of §741.81(a)-(c) of this title but who has not had the degree officially conferred may be licensed as an intern in order to begin the supervised professional experience but shall submit an original or certified copy of a letter from the program director or designee verifying the applicant has met all academic course work, clinical experience requirements, and completed a thesis or passed a comprehensive examination, if required, and is awaiting the date of next graduation for the degree to be conferred. This letter is in addition to transcripts required in subsection (c) of this section.

(e)

An applicant whose master's degree is received at a college or university accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation will receive automatic approval of the course work and clinical experience if the program director or designee verifies that all requirements as outlined in §741.81(a)-(c) of this title have been met and review of the transcript shows that the applicant has successfully completed at least 24 semester credit hours acceptable toward a graduate degree in the area of audiology with six hours in speech-language pathology.

(f)

An intern plan and agreement of supervision form shall be completed and signed by both the applicant and the licensed audiologist who agrees to assume responsibility for all services provided by the intern. The supervisor shall hold a valid Texas license in audiology and possess a master's degree with a major in one of the areas of communicative sciences and disorders.

(1)

Approval from the board office shall be required prior to practice by the intern. The form shall be submitted upon:

(A)

application for a license;

(B)

license renewal;

(C)

changes in supervision; and

(D)

when other supervisors are added.

(2)

In the event more than one licensed audiologist agrees to supervise the intern, the primary supervisor shall be identified and separate forms submitted by each supervisor.

(3)

An intern may renew the license without submitting a new form but may not practice.

(4)

In the event the supervisor ceases supervision of the intern, the intern shall stop practicing immediately.

(5)

Should the intern practice without approval from the board office, disciplinary action shall be initiated against the intern. If the supervisor had knowledge of this violation, disciplinary action against the supervisor shall also be initiated.

(g)

The internship shall:

(1)

begin within four years after the academic and clinical experience requirements as required by subsection (a) of this section have been met;

(2)

be completed within a maximum period of 36 consecutive months once initiated;

(3)

consist of 36 weeks of full-time, or its part-time equivalent, of supervised professional experience in which bona fide clinical work has been accomplished in audiology. Full-time employment is defined as a maximum of 30 hours per week in direct patient/client clinical work. Part-time equivalent is defined as follows:

(A)

0-15 hours per week--no credit will be given;

(B)

15-19 hours per week for over 72 weeks;

(C)

20-24 hours per week for over 60 weeks; or

(D)

25-29 hours per week for over 48 weeks;

(4)

involve primarily clinical activities such as assessment, diagnosis, evaluation, screening, treatment, report writing, family/client consultation, and/or counseling related to the management process of individuals who exhibit communication disabilities;

(5)

be divided into three segments with no fewer than 36 clock hours of supervisory activities to include:

(A)

six face-to-face observations per segment by the board approved supervisor of the intern's direct client contact at the worksite in which the intern provides screening, evaluation, assessment, habilitation, and rehabilitation; and

(B)

six other monitoring activities per segment with the board approved supervisor which may include correspondence, review of videotapes, evaluation of written reports, phone conferences with the intern, evaluations by professional colleagues; and

(6)

not be initiated if other options to complete the supervisory process set out in paragraph (5) of this section are requested unless approval by the board's designee is granted. The supervisor shall provide a detailed plan of supervision, in writing, with the request.

(h)

An applicant who does not meet the time frames defined in subsection (g)(1)-(2) of this section shall request an extension, in writing, explaining the reason for the request. The board's designee shall determine if the internship:

(1)

should be revised or extended; and

(2)

whether additional course work, continuing professional education hours or passing the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) is required.

(i)

During each segment of the internship, the primary supervisor shall conduct a formal evaluation of the intern's progress in the development of professional skills. Documentation of this evaluation shall be maintained by both parties for three years or until the audiology license is granted. The board may request a copy of this documentation.

(j)

Prior to implementing changes in the internship, approval from the board office is required.

(1)

If the intern changes his or her supervisor or adds additional supervisors, a current intern plan and agreement of supervision form shall be submitted by the new supervisor and approved by the board before the intern may resume practice. A report of completed internship form shall be completed by the past supervisor and intern and submitted to the board office upon completion of that portion of the internship. The board office shall evaluate the form and inform the intern of the results.

(2)

If the intern changes his or her employer but the supervisor and the number hours employed per week remain the same, the supervisor shall submit a signed statement giving the name, address and phone number of the new location.

(3)

If the number of hours worked per week changes but the supervisor and the location remain the same, the supervisor shall submit a signed statement giving the date the change occurred and the number of hours per week the intern is now working. A report of completed internship form shall be submitted for the past experience, clearly indicating the number of hours worked per week.

(k)

Any reference to the licensee's title shall state clearly that the license status is that of an intern in audiology.

(l)

An intern who completed the 36 weeks of full-time, or its part-time equivalent, of supervised professional experience as defined in subsection (g) of this section and wishes to continue to practice, shall apply for either:

(1)

an audiology license under §741.81 of this title if the intern passed the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title; or

(2)

a temporary certificate of registration under §741.86 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Temporary Certificate of Registration in Audiology) if the intern has not passed the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title.

(m)

The intern may continue to practice under supervision if he or she holds a valid intern license while awaiting the processing of the audiology license or the temporary certificate of registration in audiology as follows:

(1)

The current supervisor shall submit a statement agreeing to supervise the intern from the "Ending Date of Internship" as shown on the report of completed internship form until the intern receives either the audiology license or the temporary certificate of registration.

(2)

If the intern changes supervisors, the new supervisor shall first submit the intern plan and agreement of supervision form and receive board approval before the intern may resume practice.

Waiver of [ Special Conditions for ] Licensure for [ of ] Audiologists.

An applicant for the audiology license seeking to waive the requirements as set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.308(f), and §741.81 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Audiology License) shall be issued the license if the applicant holds the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence in audiology [ The board may waive the educational, professional and examination requirements and grant licensure to an applicant who holds the certificate of clinical competence of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in audiology ]. An original or certified copy of transcript(s) shall be required.

§741.84.Requirements for a Provisional Audiology License.

(a)

An applicant for the provisional audiology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.308(a)-(e), and this section.

(b)

An applicant who did not pass a state validated examination required for licensure in audiology shall be required to pass the examination referenced in §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) within the past ten years.

(c)

An applicant shall submit proof as defined in §741.112(d) of this title (relating to Required Application Materials) and, if found acceptable, the provisional license shall be issued to expire in 180 days.

(d)

To obtain the audiology license, the provisional license holder shall submit before expiration date of the provisional license documentation defined in either:

(1)

section 741.112(a)(3)-(6) of this title that all requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.304 and §401.305, and §741.81 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Audiology License) have been met; or

(2)

section 741.112(c)(3) and (4) of this title if the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology is acquired.

(e)

The provisional license holder shall cease practicing if the documentation required by subsection (d) of this section is not received and approved by the board within 180 days of the issuance of the provisional license.

§741.85.Requirements for an Assistant in Audiology License.

(a)

An applicant for an assistant in audiology license shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.312, and this section within 10 years of the date of application for the assistant license.

(b)

An assistant is an individual who provides audiology support services to clinical programs under supervision of a licensed audiologist and meets the following requirements:

(1)

possesses a baccalaureate degree with an emphasis in communicative sciences and disorders;

(2)

acquired no fewer than 24 semester hours in speech-language pathology and/or audiology, at least 18 of which must be in audiology core curriculum and excludes clinical experience and course work such as special education, deaf education, or sign language; and

(3)

earned no fewer than 25 hours of clinical observation in the area of audiology and 25 hours of clinical assisting experience in the area of audiology obtained within an educational institution or in one of its cooperating programs.

(c)

The baccalaureate degree shall be completed at a college or university which has a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation or holds accreditation or candidacy status from a recognized regional accrediting agency.

(1)

Original or certified copy of transcripts shall be submitted and reviewed as follows:

(A)

only course work completed within the past 10 years with a grade of "C" or above is acceptable;

(B)

a quarter hour of academic credit shall be considered as two-thirds of a semester credit hour; and

(C)

academic courses, the titles of which are not self-explanatory, shall be substantiated through course descriptions in official school catalogs or bulletins or by other official means.

(2)

In the event the course work and clinical experience set out in subsection (b) of this section were earned more than 10 years before the date of application for the assistant license, the applicant shall submit proof of current knowledge of the practice of audiology to be evaluated by the board's designee. If an applicant is required to earn additional course work or continuing professional education hours, §741.193 of this title (relating to Formal Hearings; Surrender of License or Registration) shall not apply. The applicant may reapply for the license when the requirements of this section are met.

(d)

An applicant who possesses a baccalaureate degree with a major that is not in communicative sciences and disorders may qualify for the assistant license. The board's designee shall evaluate transcripts on a case-by-case basis to ensure equivalent academic preparation and shall determine if the applicant satisfactorily completed 24 graduate hours in communicative sciences or disorders which may include some leveling hours.

(e)

An applicant who has not acquired the hours referenced in subsection (b)(3) of this section shall not meet the minimum qualifications for the assistant license. Other than acquiring the 25 hours of clinical observation and the 25 hours of clinical assisting experience through an accredited college or university, there are no other exemptions in the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, for an applicant to acquire the hours. The applicant shall first obtain the assistant license by submitting the forms, fees, and documentation referenced in §741.112(e) of this title (relating to Required Application Material) and include a clinical deficiency plan to acquire the clinical observation and clinical assisting experience hours lacking.

(1)

The licensed audiologist who will provide the assistant with the training to acquire these hours shall submit:

(A)

the supervisory responsibility statement form; and

(B)

a clinical deficiency plan that shall include the following:

(i)

name and signature of the assistant;

(ii)

name, qualifications, and signature of the licensed audiologist trainer;

(iii)

number of hours of observation and/or assisting experience lacking;

(iv)

statement that the training shall be conducted under 100% direct, face-to-face supervision of the assistant; and

(v)

list of training, consistent with subsection (h) of this section, that shall be completed.

(2)

The board office shall evaluate the documentation and fees submitted to determine if the assistant license shall be issued. Additional information or revisions may be required before approval is granted.

(3)

The clinical deficiency plan shall be completed within 60 days of the issue date of the license or the assistant shall be considered to have voluntarily surrendered the license.

(4)

Immediately upon completion of the clinical deficiency plan, the trainer identified in the plan shall submit:

(A)

a supervision log that verifies the specific times and dates in which the hours were acquired with a brief description of the training conducted during each session;

(B)

a rating scale of the assistant's performance; and

(C)

a signed statement that the assistant successfully completed the clinical observation and clinical assisting experience under his or her 100% direct, face-to-face supervision of the assistant. This statement shall specify the number of hours completed and verify completions of the training identified in the clinical deficiency plan.

(5)

In addition to paragraph (4) of this subsection, the assistant shall submit an original signed statement listing the duties that an assistant may and may not perform and acknowledge understanding that the supervisory responsibility statement form shall be received and approved by board staff in order for the assistant to practice.

(6)

Board staff shall evaluate the documentation in paragraphs (4) and (5) of this subsection and inform the assistant and trainer if acceptable.

(7)

An assistant may continue to practice under supervision of the trainer while the board office evaluates the documentation identified in paragraphs (4) and (5) of this subsection.

(8)

In the event, another licensed audiologist shall supervise the assistant after completion of the clinical deficiency plan, a supervisory responsibility statement form shall be submitted to the board office seeking approval for the change in supervision. If the documentation required by paragraphs (4) and (5) of this subsection has not been received and approved by the board office, approval for the change shall not be granted.

(f)

A supervisory responsibility statement form shall be completed and signed by both the applicant and the licensed audiologist who agrees to assume responsibility for all services provided by the assistant.

(1)

Approval from the board office shall be required prior to practice by the assistant. The form shall be submitted upon:

(A)

application for a license;

(B)

license renewal;

(C)

changes in supervision; and

(D)

when other supervisors are added.

(2)

In the event more than one licensed audiologist agrees to supervise the assistant, the primary supervisor shall be identified and separate forms submitted by each supervisor.

(3)

An assistant may renew the license without submitting a new form but may not practice.

(4)

In the event the supervisor ceases supervision of the assistant, the assistant shall stop practicing immediately.

(5)

Should the assistant practice without approval from the board office, disciplinary action shall be initiated against the assistant. If the supervisor had knowledge of this violation, disciplinary against the supervisor shall also be initiated.

(g)

Direct supervision of audiology duties assigned to the assistant shall be provided by a licensed audiologist.

(1)

Diagnostic contacts shall be conducted by the supervising licensed audiologist. This contact may include evaluation of the client.

(2)

Following the diagnostic contact, the supervising audiologist shall determine whether the assistant has the competence to perform specific duties before delegating tasks.

(3)

The supervising audiologist shall provide the minimum of no less than two hours per week, at least half of which is face-to-face supervision, at the location where the assistant is employed. This applies whether the assistant's practice is full or part-time.

(4)

Indirect methods of supervision may include audio and/or video tape recording, telephone communication, numerical data, or other means of reporting.

(5)

An exception to paragraph (3) of this subsection may be requested. The supervising audiologist shall submit a proposed plan of supervision for review by the board's designee. The plan shall be for not more than one year's duration and shall include:

(A)

the name of the assistant;

(B)

the name and signature of the supervisor;

(C)

the proposed plan of supervision;

(D)

the exact time frame for the proposed plan;

(E)

the length of time the assistant has been practicing under the requestor's supervision; and

(F)

the reason the request is necessary.

(6)

If the exception referenced in paragraph (5) of this subsection is approved and the reason continues to exist, the licensed supervising audiologist shall annually resubmit a request to be evaluated by the board's designee.

(7)

Supervisory records shall be maintained by the licensed audiologist which verify regularly scheduled monitoring, assessment, and evaluation of the assistant's and client's performance. Such documentation may be requested by the board.

(A)

An assistant may conduct assessments which includes data collection, clinical observation and routine test administration if the assistant has been appropriately trained and the assessments are conducted under the direction of the supervisor.

(B)

An assistant may not conduct an evaluation which includes diagnostic testing, test and observation interpretation, diagnosis, decision making, statement of severity or implication, case selection or case load decisions.

(h)

Although the licensed supervising audiologist may delegate specific clinical tasks to an assistant, the responsibility to the client for all services provided cannot be delegated. The licensed audiologist shall ensure that all services provided are in compliance with this chapter.

(1)

The licensed audiologist need not be present when the assistant is completing the assigned tasks; however, the licensed audiologist shall document all services provided and the supervision of the assistant.

(2)

The licensed audiologist shall keep job descriptions and performance records. Records shall be current and be made available to the board within 30 days of the date of the board's request for such records.

(3)

The assistant may execute specific components of the clinical speech, language, and/or hearing program if the licensed audiologist determines that the assistant has received the training and has the skill to accomplish that task, and the licensed audiologist provides sufficient supervision to ensure appropriate completion of the task assigned to the assistant.

(4)

Examples of duties which an assistant may be assigned by the audiologist who agreed to accept responsibility for the services provided by the assistant, provided appropriate training has been received, are to:

(A)

conduct or participate in speech, language, and/or hearing screening;

(B)

conduct aural habilitation or rehabilitation;

(C)

provide carry-over activities which are the therapeutically designed transfer of a newly acquired communication ability to other contexts and situations;

(D)

collect data;

(E)

administer routine tests as defined by the board;

(F)

maintain clinical records;

(G)

prepare clinical materials; and

(H)

participate with the licensed audiologist in research projects, staff development, public relations programs, or similar activities as designated and supervised by the licensed audiologist.

(5)

The assistant shall not:

(A)

conduct evaluations even under supervision since this is a diagnostic and decision making activity;

(B)

interpret results of routine tests;

(C)

interpret observations or data into diagnostic statements, clinical management strategies, or procedures;

(D)

present audiology at staff meetings or on an admission, review and dismissal (ARD);

(E)

attend staffing meeting or ARD without the supervisor being present;

(F)

design a treatment program;

(G)

determine case selection;

(H)

present written or oral reports of client information;

(I)

refer a client to other professionals or other agencies;

(J)

use any title which connotes the competency of a licensed audiologist; or

(K)

practice as an assistant in audiology without a valid supervisory responsibility statement on file in the board office.

(i)

A licensed assistant in audiology may attend staff meetings or admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) without the presence of the licensed audiology supervisor if audiology consultation or deliberation is not required, provided the following conditions are met.

(1)

The supervisor shall:

(A)

verify and document that the assistant has practiced as an assistant in Texas for three or more years or the equivalent time of practice in another state;

(B)

verify and document the competency of the assistant;

(C)

sign agreement to all ARD's; and

(D)

sign and consult with the assistant on all reports.

(2)

If all conditions stipulated in paragraph (1) of this subsection are met, the supervisor may allow the assistant to:

(A)

participate in routine monitoring or to schedule changes;

(B)

present written reports signed by the licensed audiologist at staff meetings; and

(C)

present the audiologist's written recommendation for routine dismissal or admission if all parties are in agreement.

(3)

The assistant shall not sign the ARD form as the audiology representative.

(j)

Any reference to the licensee's title shall state clearly that the license status is that of an assistant in audiology.

(k)

An assistant may not engage in the fitting, dispensing or sale of a hearing instrument; however, an assistant who is licensed under the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 402, may engage in activities as allowed by that law and is not considered to be functioning under his or her assistant license when performing those activities.

(l)

The board will audit 10% of licensed assistants each month for compliance with this section and §741.41 of this title (relating to the Code of Ethics).

(1)

The board shall notify an assistant by mail that he or she has been selected for an audit.

(2)

Upon receipt of an audit notification, the assistant and the licensed audiologist who agreed to accept responsibility for the services provided by the assistant shall mail the requested proof of compliance to the board.

(3)

A licensee and supervisor shall comply with the board's request for documentation and information concerning compliance with the audit.

§741.86.Requirements for a Temporary Certificate of Registration in Audiology.

(a)

An applicant for a [ A ] temporary certificate of registration in audiology must meet the requirements of the Texas Occupations Code, §401.310, and [ may be applied for by an individual who submits original or certified copy of documentation that all requirements referenced in ] §741.81 (a)-(d) [ (1)-(12) ] of this title (relating to Requirements for an Audiology License) [ have been met but who has not previously applied to the board to take the examination for licensure as required by §741.122 of this title (relating to Administration) ].

(b)

If issued, this certificate entitles an applicant approved for examination as required by §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) to practice audiology for a period of time ending eight weeks after the next scheduled examination [ offering of the next examination after the date of issue of the certificate ].

(c)

The temporary certificate of registration does not include a provision to allow the holder to fit and dispense hearing instruments.

(d)

[ (c) ] A temporary certificate of registration is not renewable.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004633

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter G. REQUIREMENTS FOR DUAL LICENSURE AS A SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST AND AUDIOLOGIST

22 TAC §741.91

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeal is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

The repeal affects the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.91.Requirements for Dual License.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004634

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


22 TAC §741.91

The new section is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

The new section affects the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.91.Requirements for Dual Licenses in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology.

(a)

An applicant for dual licenses in speech-language pathology and in audiology as referenced in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.302(d), shall meet the requirements set out in:

(1)

section 741.63 of this title (relating to a Waiver of Licensure for a Speech-Language Pathologist) and §741.83 of this title (relating to a Waiver of Licensure for an Audiologist); or

(2)

section 741.61 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License) and §741.81 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Audiology License) with the following exceptions.

(A)

Instead of the number of semester credit hours of course work referenced in §741.61(b) of this title and §741.81(b) of this title, the applicant shall have completed:

(i)

at least 42 semester credit hours in professional course work acceptable toward a graduate degree with at least 21 semester credit hours awarded graduate credit in speech-language pathology and at least 21 semester credit hours awarded graduate credit in audiology;

(ii)

at least 30 semester credit hours acceptable toward a graduate degree in the area of speech-language pathology as follows:

(I)

at least six graduate semester credit hours in speech disorders; and

(II)

at least six graduate semester credit hours in language disorders;

(iii)

at least 30 semester credit hours acceptable toward a graduate degree in the area of audiology as follows:

(I)

at least six graduate semester credit hours in hearing disorders and hearing evaluations; and

(II)

at least six graduate semester credit hours in habilitative/rehabilitative procedures with individuals who have hearing impairment.

(B)

Instead of the number of hours of supervised clinical observation and experience referenced in §741.61(c) of this title and §741.81(c) of this title, the applicant shall have completed at least:

(i)

25 credit hours of supervised observation in evaluation and treatment of children and adults with disorders of speech, language, or hearing prior to beginning 500 graduate credit hours of direct clinical experience; and

(ii)

500 minimum graduate credit hours of clinical experience with at least 250 credit hours in speech-language pathology under direction of a master's degreed licensed speech-language pathology and at least 250 credit hours in audiology under direction of a master's degreed licensed audiologist.

(b)

Academic credit for clinical experience cannot be used to satisfy the minimum requirements of at least 21 graduate semester credit hours in speech-language pathology and at least 21 graduate semester credit hours in audiology.

(c)

Transcripts shall be evaluated as set out in either §741.61(b) of this title or §741.81(b) of this title.

(d)

A speech-language pathology license and an audiology license shall be issued individually.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004635

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter H. APPLICATIONS PROCEDURES

22 TAC §§741.101 - 741.103

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.101.Purpose.

§741.102. General.

§741.103.Required Application Materials.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004636

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter H. FITTING AND DISPENSING OF HEARING INSTRUMENTS

22 TAC §§741.101 - 741.103

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.101.Requirements for Registration of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments.

(a)

An applicant for the fitting and dispensing of hearing instruments registration shall meet the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.403(b), and be licensed under §741.81 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Audiology License) or §741.82 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Intern in Audiology License).

(b)

A licensed intern in audiology shall only fit and dispense hearing instruments under supervision of the licensed audiologist approved by the board office to supervise the internship.

§741.102.General Practice Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments.

In accordance with the Texas Occupations Code, §§401.401, 401.403, and 401.404, a licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology registered to fit and dispense hearing instruments shall:

(1)

adhere to the federal Food and Drug Administration regulations in accordance with 21 Code of Federal Regulations, §801.420 and §801.421;

(2)

insure that all equipment used by the licensee within his or her scope of practice shall be calibrated to insure compliance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), S3.6, 1969, Specification for Audiometers, or S3.6, 1989, Specification for Audiometers, which the board adopts by reference in this paragraph. Licensees shall use the specification section referenced depending upon the date the equipment was manufactured. The standards are available through the American National Standards Institute, 11 West 42nd Street, 13th Floor, New York, New York, 10036, or from the board office;

(3)

receive a written statement before selling a hearing instrument that is signed by a licensed physician who specializes in diseases of the ear and states that the client's hearing loss has been medically evaluated during the preceding six-month period and that the client may be a candidate for a hearing instrument. If the client is age 18 or over, the registered audiologist or intern in audiology may inform the client that the medical evaluation requirement may be waived as long as the registered audiologist or intern in audiology:

(A)

informs the client that the exercise of the waiver is not in the client's best health interest;

(B)

does not encourage the client to waive the medical evaluation; and

(C)

gives the client an opportunity to sign this statement: "I have been advised by (the name of the individual dispensing the hearing instrument) that the Food and Drug Administration has determined that my best health interest would be served if I had a medical evaluation by a licensed physician (preferably a physician who specializes in diseases of the ear) before purchasing a hearing instrument. I do not wish medical evaluation before purchasing a hearing instrument."; and

(4)

inform the consumer of a hearing instrument by written contract of a trial period of 30 consecutive days.

(A)

All charges and fees associated with such trial period shall be stated in this agreement which shall also include the name, address, and telephone number of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. The purchaser shall receive a copy of this agreement.

(B)

Any purchaser of a hearing instrument shall be entitled to a refund of the purchase price advanced by purchaser for the hearing instrument, less the agreed-upon amount associated with the trial period, upon return of the instrument to the licensee in good working order within the trial period. Should the order be canceled by purchaser prior to the delivery of the instrument, the licensee may retain the agreed-upon charges and fees as specified in the written contract. The purchaser shall receive the refund due no later than the 30th day after the date on which the purchaser cancels the order or returns the hearing instrument to the licensee.

§741.103.Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Conducting Audiometric Testing for the Purpose of Fitting and Dispensing Hearing Instruments.

In accordance with the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, a licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology registered to fit and dispense hearing instrument, shall comply with this section when testing hearing for the purpose of determining the need for amplification.

(1)

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) "earns covered" octave band criteria for permissible ambient noise levels during audiometric testing must be adhered to. The "ears covered" permissible ambient noise levels are shown on the chart.

Figure: 22 TAC §741.103(1)

(2)

This requirement is best met when a stationary acoustical enclosure is utilized.

(3)

A stationary acoustical enclosure is any fixed enclosed space in which an individual is located for the purpose of testing hearing to threshold. A stationary acoustical enclosure may also be known as an audiometric or hearing test booth, room, suite, area, or space.

(4)

Procedures referenced in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.401, should be followed when testing outside of a stationary acoustical enclosure.

(A)

Hearing testing that occurs in an area that does not meet the standard of a stationary acoustical enclosure for the purpose of determining the need for amplification is not considered a diagnostic or threshold measurement.

(B)

In the event amplification is deemed necessary but verification measures cannot be completed in a stationary acoustical enclosure, instrumentation that is minimally affected by ambient noise, such as real ear measure, shall be utilized to assure the appropriate fit of the amplification.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004637

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter I. APPLICATION PROCEDURES

22 TAC §741.111, §741.112

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.111.Application Submission.

(a)

An applicant shall submit required information and documentation of credentials on official board forms. Forms and application materials shall be obtained from and returned to: State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3183 unless accompanied by a fee. If the fee is included with the documentation, return to the board at: State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Texas Department of Health, P.O. Box 12197, Capitol Station, Austin, Texas 78711-2197.

(b)

The application shall not be considered as officially submitted without receipt of all forms and documentation required by §741.112 of this title (relating to Required Application Materials) and the application and initial license fee as referenced in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.302 and §401.303, and define in §741.181(1) of this title (relating to Schedule of Fees).

(c)

The board office shall notify the applicant within the time periods established in §741.182 of this title (relating to Processing Procedures) whether:

(1)

the request for the license was approved; or

(2)

additional documentation is required.

(d)

If additional documentation is required, the request for the license shall remain open no longer than 90 days following the date the board office received the request for the license.

(e)

If the documentation requested is not received before the 90 days referenced in subsection (d) of this section, the request for the license shall be deleted and the fee forfeited.

§741.112.Required Application Materials.

(a)

An applicant applying for a speech-language pathology or audiology license under §741.61 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Speech-Language Pathology License) or §741.81 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Audiology License) shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days;

(2)

the application and initial license fee;

(3)

an original or certified copy of transcript(s) of all relevant course work which also verifies that the applicant possesses a minimum of a master's degree with a major in one of the areas of communicative sciences or disorders; however, an applicant who graduated from a college or university with a program not accredited by the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association Council for Academic Accreditation, shall submit an original signed letter from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association stating the Clinical Certification Board accepted the course work and clinical experience;

(4)

an original board course work and clinical experience form completed by the director or designee of the college or university attended which verifies the applicant has met the requirements established in §741.61 (b)-(c) of this title or §741.81 (b)-(c) of this title;

(5)

an original board report of completed internship form completed by the applicant's supervisor and signed by both the applicant and the supervisor; however, if the internship was completed out-of-state, the supervisor shall also submit a copy of his or her diploma or transcript showing the master's degree in one of the areas of communicative sciences and disorders had been conferred and a copy of a valid license to practice in that state. If that state did not require licensure, the supervisor shall submit an original letter from the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association stating the certificate of clinical competence is currently held in addition to proof of a master's degree in communicative sciences and disorders; and

(6)

an original or certified statement from the Educational Testing Service showing the applicant passed the examination described in §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) within the time period established in §741.61(e) or §741.81(e) of this title.

(b)

An applicant applying for an intern in speech-language pathology license under §741.62 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License) or an intern in audiology license under §741.82 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Intern in Audiology License) shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days;

(2)

the application and initial license fee;

(3)

an original or certified copy of transcript(s) of all relevant course work which also verifies that the applicant possesses a minimum of a master's degree with a major in one of the areas of communicative sciences or disorders; however, an applicant who graduated from a college or university with a program not accredited by the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association Council for Academic Accreditation, shall submit an original signed letter from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association stating the Clinical Certification Board accepted the course work and clinical experience;

(4)

if the master's degree has not been officially conferred, an original or certified copy of transcript(s) and a letter signed by the program director or designee at the university attended verifying the applicant successfully completed all requirements for the master's degree, and is only awaiting the date of next graduation for the degree to be conferred;

(5)

an original board course work and clinical experience form completed by the director or designee of the college or university attended which verifies the applicant has met the requirements established in §741.61(b)-(c) of this title or §741.81(b)-(c) of this title; and

(6)

a current, original board intern plan and agreement of supervision form completed by the supervisor and signed by both the applicant and the supervisor.

(c)

An applicant who holds the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certificate of clinical competence applying for licensure under §741.63 of this title (relating to Waiver of Licensure for Speech-Language Pathologists) or §741.83 of this title (relating to Waiver of Licensure for Audiologists) shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days;

(2)

the application and initial license fee;

(3)

an original or certified copy of a signed letter from the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association which verifies the applicant currently holds the certificate of clinical competence in the area in which the applicant has applied for license; and

(4)

an original or certified copy of transcript(s) of all relevant course work which also verifies that the applicant possesses a minimum of a master's degree with a major in one of the areas of communicative sciences or disorders; however, an applicant who graduated from a college or university with a program not accredited by the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association Council for Academic Accreditation, shall submit an original signed letter from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association stating the Clinical Certification Board accepted the course work and clinical experience.

(d)

An applicant applying for a speech-language pathology or audiology provisional license under §741.64 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Provisional Speech- Language Pathology License) or §741.84 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Provisional Audiology License) shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days;

(2)

the provisional application and initial license fee;

(3)

a copy of the licensing law and rules from the state of the applicant's previous residence;

(4)

a copy of the applicant's license from another state;

(5)

an original letter or form completed by that state's licensing board with board seal affixed which verifies:

(A)

name and social security number of the applicant;

(B)

whether the applicant holds a current valid license;

(C)

the area of licensure;

(D)

the date the license was issued;

(E)

the date the license expires or expired;

(F)

the licensure qualifications that were met by applicant;

(G)

whether the applicant passed an examination required for state licensure and the name of the examination;

(H)

whether the license had ever been revoked, canceled or suspended; and

(I)

whether disciplinary proceedings were initiated;

(6)

an original or certified statement from the Educational Testing Service which verifies the applicant passed the examination described in §741.121 of this title within the past 10 years if no examination is listed under paragraph (5)(G) of this subsection;

(7)

a signed statement from an individual licensed by this board who will accept sponsorship of the applicant's practice unless the board approved a request to waive this requirement because it would constitute a hardship; and

(8)

once documentation required in this paragraph has been received and a provisional license issued, the provisional license holder shall submit additional documentation as required by §741.64(d) of this title (relating to Requirements for a Provisional Speech- Language Pathology License) or §741.84(d) of this title (relating to Requirements for a Provisional Audiology License) in order to receive a full license.

(e)

An applicant applying for an assistant in speech-language pathology license under §741.65 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology License) or an assistant in audiology license under §741.85 of this title (relating to Requirements for an Assistant in Audiology License) shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days;

(2)

the application and initial license fee;

(3)

a current, original board supervisory responsibility statement form completed by the licensed supervisor who agrees to accept responsibility for the services provided by the assistant and signed by both the applicant and the supervisor;

(4)

an original or certified copy of transcript(s) of relevant course work which also verifies that the applicant possesses a baccalaureate degree with an emphasis in speech- language pathology and/or audiology;

(5)

an original board clinical observation and experience form completed by the director or designee of the college or university training program verifying the applicant completed the requirements set out in §741.65 (b)(3) of this title or §741.85 (b)(3) of this title; and

(6)

for an applicant who did not obtain the hours referenced in paragraph (5) of this subsection, a clinical deficiency plan to obtain the hours.

(f)

An applicant applying for a speech-language pathology temporary certificate of registration under §741.66 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Temporary Certificate of Registration in Speech-Language Pathology) or an audiology temporary certificate of registration under §741.86 of this title (relating to Requirements for a Temporary Certificate of Registration in Audiology) shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days;

(2)

the temporary certificate of registration fee;

(3)

an original or certified copy of transcript(s) of all relevant course work which also verifies that the applicant possesses a minimum of a master's degree with a major in one of the areas of communicative sciences or disorders; however, an applicant who graduated from a college or university with a program not accredited by the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association Council for Academic Accreditation, shall submit an original signed letter from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association stating the Clinical Certification Board accepted the course work and clinical experience;

(4)

an original board course work and clinical experience form completed by the director or designee of the college or university attended which verifies the applicant has met the requirements established in §741.61 (b)-(c) of this title or §741.81 (b)-(c) of this title;

(5)

an original board report of completed internship form completed by the applicant's supervisor and signed by both the applicant and the supervisor; however, if the internship was completed out-of-state, the supervisor shall also submit a copy of his or her diploma or transcript showing the master's degree in one of the areas of communicative sciences and disorders had been conferred and a copy of a valid license to practice in that state. If that state did not require licensure, the supervisor shall submit an original letter from the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association stating the certificate of clinical competence is currently held in addition to proof of a master's degree in communicative sciences and disorders; and

(6)

an applicant who completed the internship in another state and graduated from a college or university with a program not accredited by the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association, shall submit an original, signed letter from the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association stating the Clinical Certification Board accepted the course work, clinical practicum and the clinical fellowship year.

(g)

A licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology who wishes to fit and dispense hearing instruments under §741.101 of this title (relating to Requirements for Registration of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments) shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board registration form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days; and

(2)

the registration fee to fit and dispense hearing instruments.

(h)

An applicant for dual licenses in speech-language pathology and audiology under §741.91 of this title (relating to Requirements for Dual Licenses in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology) shall submit separate documentation and fees as follows:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days requesting both licenses;

(2)

two separate application and initial license fees; and

(3)

documentation listed in subsection (a)(3)-(6) of this section or subsection (c) (3)-(4) of this section.

(i)

An applicant who currently holds one license and wishes to obtain dual licenses shall submit the following:

(1)

a completed, original board application form including disclosure of the applicant's social security number and the applicant's dated signature notarized within the past 60 days requesting the other license;

(2)

the application and initial license fee; and

(3)

documentation listed in subsection (a) (3)-(6) of this section or subsection (c) (3)-(4) of this section.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004638

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter I. LICENSURE EXAMINATIONS

22 TAC §§741.121 - 741.123

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.121.Purpose.

§741.122. Administration.

§741.123. Procedures.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004639

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter J. LICENSURE EXAMINATIONS

22 TAC §741.121

The new section is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

The new section affects the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.121.Examination Administration.

(a)

The examination required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.305, shall be administered by the Educational Testing Service to applicants at least twice a year. To request a registration form, contact the Educational Testing Service, Praxis Series, P.O. Box 6050, Princeton, New Jersey 08541-6050.

(b)

Separate tests shall be administered in speech-language pathology and in audiology.

(c)

An applicant shall pay the required fee directly to the testing service.

(d)

An applicant shall indicate on the registration form the Code #8327 assigned to the board so that the applicant's test score will be sent to the board.

(e)

An applicant shall have passed the examination if the score is 600 or above.

(f)

An applicant shall be notified of the results of the examination by the testing service.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004640

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter J. LICENSING AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

22 TAC §§741.141 - 741.143

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.141.Purpose.

§741.142.Issuance of License and Registration.

§741.143.Display of License, Certificate, or Registration.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004641

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter K. ISSUANCE AND DISPLAY OF LICENSE AND REGISTRATION

22 TAC §741.141, §741.142

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.141.Issuance of License and Registration.

(a)

The board shall issue an initial license to an applicant for a speech-language pathology, audiology, assistant in speech-language pathology, or assistant in audiology license after the fee, forms, and other documentation have been received and approved by the board or board staff. The effective date shall be the postmarked date of the last item required for approval. The expiration date shall be determined as follows.

(1)

An applicant approved for license within three months of the applicant's birth month shall be issued a license to expire on the last day of the birth month that is one year past the applicant's next birth month.

(2)

An applicant approved for less than 12 months, but for more than three months, shall be issued a license to expire upon the last day of the applicant's next birth month.

(b)

The board shall issue an initial license to an applicant for an intern in speech- language pathology or an intern in audiology license after the fee, forms, and other documentation have been received and approved by the board or board staff. The effective date shall be the postmarked date of the last item required for approval. The license shall expire one year past the effective date.

(c)

The board shall issue an initial registration to fit and dispense hearing instruments to a licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology after the form and fee have been received and approved by the board or board staff. The effective date shall be the postmarked date of the last item required for approval. The registration shall expire on the same date as that of the audiology or intern in audiology license.

(d)

The board shall issue a provisional license to an applicant in speech-language pathology or a provisional license in audiology after the fee, forms, and other documentation have been received and approved by the board or board staff. The effective date shall be the postmarked date of the last item required for approval. The license shall expired 180 days past the effective date.

(e)

The provisional license holder shall submit proof of having met the requirements for either the speech-language pathology or audiology license prior to the expiration date of the provisional license and an initial speech-language pathology or audiology license shall be issued. The effective and expiration dates shall be the same as defined in subsection (a) of this section.

(f)

The board shall issue a temporary certificate of registration in speech-language pathology or a temporary certificate of registration in audiology to an applicant after the fee, forms, and other documentation have been received and approved by the board or board staff. The effective date shall be the postmarked date of the last item required for approval. The registration shall expired eight weeks after the next scheduled examination as required by §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration).

(g)

An applicant of a license or registration issued under subsections (a)-(c) of this section shall receive the following:

(1)

a license or registration;

(2)

a certificate; and

(3)

an ID card.

(h)

An applicant of a license or registration issued under subsections (d) or (f) of this section shall receive a certificate.

(i)

Licenses and registrations issued under subsections (a)-(c) of this section may be renewed as required by §741.161 of this title (relating to Renewal Procedures).

(j)

A license, certificate, or registration issued by the board remains the property of the board.

(k)

The board shall issue a duplicate license, certificate, and registration upon written request and payment of the duplicate fee.

(l)

The board is not responsible for lost, misdirected, or undelivered correspondence, including forms and fees, if sent to the address last reported to the board.

§741.142.Display of License, Certificate, and Registration.

(a)

A licensee or registrant shall display the certificate with a current license or registration as issued by the board in the primary location of practice.

(b)

A holder of a provisional license, a limited license to practice speech-language pathology in the public schools, or a temporary certificate of registration shall display the certificate as issued by the board in the primary location of practice.

(c)

A licensee or registrant shall not display a license, certificate, or registration issued by the board which has been photographically or otherwise reproduced.

(d)

A licensee or registrant shall not make any alteration on official documents issued by the board.

(e)

A licensee or registrant shall display a duplicate certificate, license, or registration in the same manner as the original certificate.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004642

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter K. LICENSE AND REGISTRATION RENEWAL

22 TAC §§741.161 - 741.166

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.161.Purpose.

§741.162.General.

§741.163.Requirements for Continuing Professional Education.

§741.164.Inactive Status.

§741.165.Late Renewal of a License.

§741.166.Renewal of Licensee on Active Military Duty.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004643

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter L. LICENSE AND REGISTRATION RENEWAL

22 TAC §§741.161 - 741.165

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.161.Renewal Procedures.

(a)

The Texas Occupations Code, Subchapter H, provides for the renewal of a license. A license or registration issued under §741.141 (a)-(c) of this title (relating to Issuance of License and Registration) and to the holder of the limited license to practice speech-language pathology in the public schools issued under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.314, is subject to renewal upon expiration if a licensee or registrant wishes to practice under the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this chapter.

(b)

A license or registration issued under §741.141 (d) and (f) of this title cannot be renewed.

(c)

The board office shall mail a renewal form to each licensee approximately 45 days prior to the expiration date of the license. The board is not responsible for lost, misdirected, or undelivered renewal forms if sent to the address last reported to the board.

(d)

A licensee shall have acquired approved continuing education hours as defined in §741.162 of this title (relating to Requirements for Continuing Professional Education) in order to renew a license. Any continuing education hours earned before the original effective date of the license being renewed are not acceptable.

(e)

A licensee or registrant is responsible for submitting the required fee, forms, and other documentation prior to the expiration date of the license. The postmarked date is the date of mailing.

(f)

A licensee is required to provide current address, telephone number, and employment information. Corrections may be made on the renewal form or by submitting the current information, in writing, and include some identifying information, such as the license number or the social security number. A request to change the name currently on record must be submitted, in writing, with a copy of a divorce decree, marriage certificate, or social security card showing the new name.

(g)

The board office shall not consider a license to be renewed until the following has been received and found acceptable:

(1)

completed, dated, and signed renewal form, including acknowledgment of having earned the required continuing professional education hours;

(2)

license renewal fee and registration to fit and dispense hearing instruments fee, if applicable; and

(3)

if selected for audit as defined in subsection (o) of this section, the record of continuing education hours earned/used/available/dropped form, referred to as the CE log, which covers at least the past three renewal periods and verification of approved continuing education hours.

(h)

An intern shall submit the following for license renewal:

(1)

the items listed in subsection (g) of this section;

(2)

the report of completed internship form for the intern's past experience;

(3)

the intern plan and agreement of supervision form for the intern's upcoming experience unless the intern is currently not practicing. In that event, the intern shall submit a signed statement explaining the reason for not practicing.

(i)

An assistant shall submit the following for license renewal:

(1)

the items listed in subsection (g) of this section; and

(2)

the supervisory responsibility statement form unless the assistant is currently not practicing. In that event, the assistant shall submit a signed statement explaining the reason for not practicing.

(j)

An audiologist or intern in audiology registered to fit and dispense hearing instruments shall renew the registration at the same time as when renewing the audiology or intern in audiology license by responding to the appropriate questions on the renewal form and submitting the registration fee.

(1)

An audiologist or intern in audiology who no longer wishes to fit and dispense hearing instruments shall notify the board, in writing, of this decision when renewing the audiology or intern in audiology license.

(2)

An audiologist or intern in audiology who later wishes to fit and dispense hearing instruments shall first submit the completed registration form and fee. If this request is approved after expiration of the grace period of the fitting and dispensing of hearing instruments registration, the original effective date of the registration shall be changed to reflect the postmarked date of the last item required for approval.

(k)

A limited license to practice speech-language pathology in the public schools issued under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.314, shall be renewed as follows:

(1)

The applicant who met the requirements referenced in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.314(a), shall renew the license under subsection (g) of this section.

(2)

The applicant who met the requirements references in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.314(b), shall renew the license under subsection (g) of this section if an original transcript showing completion of 12 semester hours of course work in communicative sciences and disorders with a grade of at least a "C" or above as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.314(c), is also submitted.

(l)

An individual who meets the requirements set out in the Texas Occupations Code, §401.353, and wishes to renew the expired license shall submit his or her request, in writing, with the following:

(1)

an original letter from the licensing board where he or she currently holds a valid license verifying:

(A)

the area in which the license was issued;

(B)

the date of issue;

(C)

the expiration date of the license; and

(D)

whether derogatory information is on record;

(2)

a fee equal to the examination fee; and

(3)

proof of having earned at least ten approved continuing education hours during the preceding 12 months.

(m)

A licensee may renew the license under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.354, after expiration of the 60-day grace period without a late renewal penalty fee being assessed due to a medical hardship whether or not the licensee met the requirements of §741.162 of this title. If the following is submitted and found acceptable by the board office, the license shall be renewed; however the original effective date of the license shall be changed to reflect the postmarked date of the last item required for approval:

(1)

a signed statement requesting renewal due to medical hardship;

(2)

an original letter signed by the licensee's physician stating the licensee was unable to practice for at least six months during the renewal period because of a physical or mental disability;

(3)

the completed, dated, and signed renewal form;

(4)

any approved continuing education hours earned during the renewal period; and

(5)

the license renewal fee and the registration to fit and dispense hearing instruments fee, if applicable.

(n)

A licensee may petition the board if the licensee does not meet the requirements of subsection (m) of this section but believes he or she has a valid medical reason for the late renewal. The petition shall be reviewed by the board's designee.

(o)

The board shall monitor a licensee's compliance with the continuing education requirements by the use of a random audit. In the event the licensee has been selected for an audit to verify compliance with the continuing education requirement as described in §741.162 of this title, the license shall not be renewed until the licensee submits acceptable proof of having earned the required continuing education hours. If this documentation is not received or found unacceptable, the licensee shall be notified by the board office of the deficiency.

(p)

The board shall deny renewals pursuant to the Texas Education Code, §57.491, concerning defaults on guaranteed student loans.

(q)

The board shall deny renewals pursuant to the Family Code, Chapter 232, concerning failure to pay child support.

(r)

If all conditions required for renewal are met prior to expiration of the 60-day grace period, the board shall issue a renewed license and registration to fit and dispense hearing instruments, if applicable.

(s)

If the licensee has not completed the renewal process upon expiration of the 60-day grace period, he or she shall cease practicing. The licensee shall then renew his or her license in accordance with §741.164 of this title (relating to Late Renewal of a License) if he or she wishes to practice.

(t)

An audiologist or intern in audiology registered to fit and dispense hearing instruments shall not do so if the audiology or intern in audiology license has not been renewed prior to expiration of the 60-day grace period or if the license has been placed in the inactive status as set out in §741.163 of this title (relating to Inactive Status).

(u)

A suspended license is subject to expiration and may be renewed as provided in this subchapter; however, the renewal does not entitle the licensee to engage in the licensed activity or in any other activity or conduct in violation of the order or judgement by which the license was suspended, until such time as the license if fully reinstated.

(v)

A license revoked on disciplinary grounds shall not be renewed; however, the license may be reinstated under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.457. The former licensee, as a condition of reinstatement, shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount equal to the renewal fee in effect, plus the late renewal penalty fee, if any, accrued since the time of the license revocation.

§741.162.Requirements for Continuing Professional Education.

(a)

Continuing professional education in speech-language pathology and audiology as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.355, consists of a series of planned individual learning experiences beyond the basic educational program which has led to a degree or qualifies one for licensure.

(b)

A continuing education unit (CEU) is the basic unit of measurement used to credit individuals with continuing education activities for licensure. One CEU is defined as 10 contact hours of participation in an approved continuing education experience.

(c)

Ten clock hours (one CEU) shall be required for yearly renewal. The holder of dual licenses, meaning both a speech-language pathology license and an audiology license, shall be required to earn 15 clock hours (1.5 CEU's) annually.

(d)

When renewing an initial license, the licensee shall submit the following continuing education hours based upon the number of months for which the initial license was approved. Continuing education hours earned before the original effective date of a license being renewed are not acceptable:

(1)

four months - 3.0 clock hours (or 5.0 clock hours if dually licensed);

(2)

five months-4.0 clock hours (or 6.25 clock hours if dually licensed);

(3)

six months-5.0 clock hours (or 7.5 clock hours if dually licensed);

(4)

seven months-5.5 clock hours (or 8.75 clock hours if dually licensed);

(5)

eight months-6.5 clock hours (or 10.0 clock hours if dually licensed);

(6)

nine months-7.25 clock hours (or 11.25 clock hours if dually licensed);

(7)

10 months-8.25 clock hours (or 12.5 clock hours if dually licensed);

(8)

11 months-9.0 clock hours (or 13.75 clock hours if dually licensed);

(9)

12 months-10.0 clock hours (or 15.0 clock hours if dually licensed);

(10)

13 months-10.75 clock hours (or 16.25 clock hours if dually licensed);

(11)

14 months-11.5 clock hours (or 17.5 clock hours if dually licensed); or

(12)

15 months-12.5 clock hours (or 18.75 clock hours if dually licensed).

(e)

Continuing professional education shall be earned in one of the following areas:

(1)

basic communication processes;

(2)

speech-language pathology;

(3)

audiology; or

(4)

an area of study related to the areas listed in paragraphs (1)-(3) of this subsection.

(f)

Any continuing education activity shall be provided by an approved sponsor with the exception of activities referenced in subsection (g)-(i) of this section. A list of approved sponsors designated by the board shall be made available to all licensees and updated as necessary.

(g)

University or college course work completed with a grade of at least a "C" or for credit from an accredited college or university in the areas listed in subsection (e)(1)-(3) of this section shall be approved for ten continuing education clock hours per semester hour.

(h)

University or college course work or events approved by the American Medical Association in a related area as referenced in subsection (e)(4) of this section may be approved if the activity furthers the knowledge of speech-language pathology or audiology or enhances service delivery. A licensee shall contact the board office for prior approval of such events by submitting a description of the activity to the board office for review by the board's designee. In some instances additional information may be required. Partial credit may be awarded.

(i)

A licensee who took the examination as referenced in §741.121 of this title (relating to Examination Administration) within the renewal period and passed with a score of 600 or above shall meet the continuing education requirement for three consecutive years.

(j)

Effective with licenses that expire on or after September 1, 2004, earned continuing education hours exceeding the minimum requirement in a previous renewal period shall first be applied to the continuing education requirement for the current renewal period.

(1)

A maximum of 10 additional clock hours may be accrued during a license period to be applied to the next consecutive renewal period.

(2)

A maximum of 15 additional clock hours may be accrued by dual speech-language pathology and audiology licensees during a license period to be applied to the next consecutive renewal period.

(k)

Licenses that expire prior to September 1, 2004, earned continuing education hours exceeding the minimum requirement in a previous renewal period shall first be applied to the continuing education requirement for the current renewal period.

(1)

A maximum of 20 additional clock hours may be accrued during a license period to be applied to the next two consecutive renewal periods.

(2)

A maximum of 30 additional clock hours may be accrued by dual speech-language pathology and audiology licensees during a license period to be applied to the next two consecutive renewal periods.

(l)

The licensee shall be responsible for maintaining a record of his or her continuing education experiences for a period of at least three years.

(1)

The board record of continuing education hours earned/used/available/dropped form, referred to as a CE log, shall include a history of at least the last three renewal periods. In the event the license has not been held that long, the record must include a history since the effective date of the license being renewed.

(2)

The licensee shall include all of the information as specified on the CE log.

(3)

The licensee shall indicate on the CE log the hours used for each renewal and specify the renewal year.

(4)

The licensee shall obtain verification of the continuing education activity as defined in subsection (m) of this section.

(m)

Proof of completion of a valid continuing education experience shall include the name of the licensee, the sponsor of the event, the title and date of the event, and the number of continuing education hours earned. Unauthorized signatures or verification will not be accepted. Acceptable verification shall be:

(1)

a letter or form bearing a valid signature or verification as designated by the approved sponsor;

(2)

in the event verification referenced in paragraph (1) of this subsection cannot be obtained, the board may accept verification from the presenter of an approved event if the presenter can also provide proof that the event was acceptable to an approved sponsor;

(3)

an original or certified copy of the transcript if earned under subsections (g)-(h) of this section;

(4)

a letter or form from the American Medical Association if earned under subsection (h) of this section stating the event was approved for Category I;

(5)

an original or certified copy of the score if earned under subsection (i) of this section; and

(6)

if the continuing education event was earned under subsection (h) of this section, a letter or form from the board office granting prior board approval of the event in addition to documentation listed in paragraphs (3) and (4) of this subsection. If this approval was not obtained, the licensee shall not include the event on the CE log. The licensee shall comply with the requirements set out in subsection (h) of this section and, if approval is granted, add the event to the CE log.

(n)

The CE log, certificates, diplomas, or other documentation verifying earning of continuing education hours shall not to be forwarded to the board at the time of renewal unless the board selected the licensee for audit.

(o)

The audit process shall be as follows.

(1)

The board shall select for audit a random sample of licensees for each renewal month. The renewal form shall indicate whether the licensee has been selected for audit.

(2)

A licensee selected for audit shall submit documentation defined in subsections (l) and (m) of this section at the time the renewal form and fee are submitted to the board.

(3)

Failure to timely furnish this information or knowingly provide false information during the audit process or the renewal process are grounds for disciplinary action against the licensee.

§741.163.Inactive Status.

(a)

A licensee who does not wish to practice may request inactive status as provided by Texas Occupations Code, §401.313.

(b)

Prior to the expiration date of the license, the licensee shall submit the following in order to place the license on inactive status. The postmarked date is the date of mailing:

(1)

the board inactive status request form which has been completed, signed, and dated; and

(2)

the inactive status fee.

(c)

The inactive status period shall begin following the expiration date of the license.

(d)

The license may remain on inactive status for no more than three years past the expiration date of the license. During the time the license is placed on inactive status, the inactive licensee may not practice or represent himself or herself as a speech-language pathologist, audiologist, intern, or assistant.

(e)

A licensed audiologist or intern in audiology registered to fit and dispense hearing instruments may not do so if the audiology or the intern in audiology license has been placed on inactive status.

(f)

The inactive licensee shall be notified annually that, in order for the license to remain on inactive status, the board inactive status notice which has been completed, signed and dated and the inactive status fee shall be submitted to the board office as follows:

(1)

if the licensee wishes the license to remain inactive for a second year, the form and fee shall be received on or before a date that is one year past expiration of the license; and

(2)

if the licensee wishes the license to remain inactive for the third and final year, the form and fee shall be submitted on or before a date that is two years past expiration of the license.

(g)

A late renewal penalty fee shall be assessed if the inactive licensee fails to submit the board form and fee within the required time frames stated in subsection (f) of this section. If the inactive licensee wishes to practice, the license must first be renewed under §741.164 of this title (relating to Late Renewal of a License).

(h)

The license on inactive status may be reactivated at any time by submission of a written signed request and the following:

(1)

the CE log as required by §741.162(l) of this title (relating to Requirements for Continuing Professional Education); and

(2)

verification of continuing education hours earned as required by §741.162(m) of this title.

(i)

The inactive licensee shall earn 10 continuing education hours or 15 hours for holders of dual speech-language pathology and audiology licenses during the 12-month period preceding the request to reactivate the license unless hours were accrued under §741.162(j) or (k) of this title and are available for use when the request for reactivation is received by the board.

(j)

The random audit for compliance with the continuing education requirements referenced in §741.161(o) of this title (relating to Renewal Procedures) does not apply to reactivation of a license on inactive status.

(k)

If the board office approves the reactivation of the license, active status shall begin on the date of approval. The licensee's next continuing education cycle shall begin on the same date.

(l)

A license that is not reactivated within the three-year period cannot be renewed, restored, reissued, or reinstated. If the individual wishes to practice, he or she shall reapply for the license if requirements of the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, are met.

(m)

If a licensee places his or her license on inactive status, the inactive licensee shall be subject to investigation and action under §741.192 of this title (relating to Procedures for Filing a Complaint and Denying, Suspending, or Revoking a License or Registration).

§741.164.Late Renewal of a License.

(a)

A licensee who fails to renew his or her license before the end of the 60-day grace period shall be assessed a late renewal penalty as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.352, unless the license had been placed on inactive status. The postmarked date is the date of mailing.

(b)

The Texas Occupations Code, §401.301, prohibits an individual from practicing after expiration of the 60-day grace period. Penalties for doing so are defined in the Texas Occupations Code, §§401.501-401.503.

(c)

An audiologist or intern in audiology registered to fit and dispense hearing instruments may not do so if the registration and the audiology or the intern in audiology license have not been renewed prior to expiration of the 60-day grace period.

(d)

The following shall be submitted to renew a license after expiration of the grace period:

(1)

the board late renewal of a license form which requires a written, signed statement concerning the licensee's practice since expiration of the 60-day grace period under the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this chapter;

(2)

the late renewal penalty fee as set out in §741.181 of this title (relating to Schedule of Fees);

(3)

the CE log as required by §741.162(1) of this title (relating to Requirements for Continuing Professional Education); and

(4)

verification of continuing education hours earned as required by §741.162(m) of this title.

(e)

The following number of continuing education hours shall be required:

(1)

if renewing an initial license before the end of the first year of the penalty status, the number of continuing education hours that shall be earned are listed under §741.162(d) of this title;

(2)

if renewing before the end of the first year of penalty status, ten continuing education hours or 15 hours for holders of dual speech-language pathology and audiology licenses;

(3)

if renewing at the end of the first year of penalty status but before the end of the second year, 20 continuing education hours or 30 hours for holders of dual speech-language pathology and audiology licenses; or

(4)

if renewing at the end of the second and final year of penalty status, 30 continuing education hours or 45 hours for holders of dual speech-language pathology and audiology licenses.

(f)

Continuing education hours accrued under §741.162 (j) or (k) of this title may be used if the hours are available for use when the request for renewal is received by the board.

(g)

The random audit for compliance with the continuing education requirements referenced in §741.161(o) of this title (relating to Renewal Procedures) does not apply to late renewal of a license.

(h)

If the board office approves the request for late renewal of a license, active status shall begin on the date of approval. The licensee shall earn continuing education hours as required by §741.162 of this title in order to renew the license upon expiration.

§741.165.Renewal of Licensee on Active Military Duty.

If a licensee fails to timely renew his or her license because the licensee is or was on active duty with the armed forces of the United States of America serving outside the State of Texas, the licensee may renew the license as follows.

(1)

Renewal of the license may be requested by the licensee, the licensee's spouse, or an individual having power of attorney from the licensee. The renewal form shall include a current address and telephone number for the individual requesting the renewal.

(2)

A copy of the official orders or other official military documentation showing that the licensee is or was on active duty serving outside the State of Texas shall be filed with the board along with the renewal form.

(3)

A licensee renewing under this section shall pay the applicable renewal fee, but not a late renewal penalty fee.

(4)

A licensee renewing under this section shall submit proof of any clock hours of continuing education earned prior to being called to active duty serving outside the State of Texas, and no further continuing education hours shall be required for that renewal.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004644

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter L. FEES AND PROCESSING PROCEDURES

22 TAC §741.181, §741.182

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.181.Schedule of Fees.

§741.182.Processing Procedures.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004645

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter M. FEES AND PROCESSING PROCEDURES

22 TAC §741.181, §741.182

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.181.Schedule of Fees.

(a)

All fees paid to the board are non-refundable. The schedule of fees as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.204, is as follows:

(1)

application and initial license fee - $70;

(2)

provisional application and initial license fee - $70;

(3)

temporary certificate of registration fee - $50;

(4)

registration fee to fit and dispense hearing instruments - $15;

(5)

license renewal fee - $40;

(6)

dual licenses as a speech-language pathologist and audiologist renewal fee - $65;

(7)

duplicate license, certificate, or registration fee - $10;

(8)

inactive status fee - $40;

(9)

license verification fee - $10;

(10)

late renewal penalty fee - an amount equal to the renewal fee(s), with a maximum of three renewal fees, plus the examination fee;

(11)

examination fee - the amount charged by the Texas Department of Health's designee administering the examination; and

(12)

reinstatement fee for a license that was suspended for failure to pay child support - $50.

(b)

Any licensee attaining the age of 65 years shall have his or her license renewal fee waived, but if renewed after the expiration of the 60-day grace period, the late renewal penalty fee shall be assessed.

(c)

Any remittance submitted to the board in payment of a required fee shall be in the form of a personal check, certified check, or money order unless this section requires otherwise. Checks from foreign financial institutions are not acceptable.

(d)

An applicant whose check for the application and initial license fee is returned marked insufficient funds, account closed, or payment stopped shall be allowed to reinstate the application by remitting to the board a money order or check for guaranteed funds within 30 days of the date of the receipt of the board's notice. Otherwise, the application and the approval shall be invalid.

(e)

A licensee whose check for the renewal fee is returned marked insufficient funds, account closed, or payment stopped shall remit to the board a money order or check for guaranteed funds within 30 days of the date of receipt of the board's notice. Otherwise, the license shall not be renewed. If a renewal card has already been issued, it shall be invalid. If the guaranteed funds are received after expiration of the 60-day grace period, a late renewal penalty fee shall be assessed.

§741.182.Time Periods For Processing Applications, Registrations, and Renewals.

(a)

Within 15 working days of the board's receipt of a new application, the board office shall:

(1)

approve the application and notify the applicant that he or she may begin practicing; or

(2)

mail a letter of deficiency listing the documentation that must be submitted before the application shall be approved.

(b)

The applicant shall be notified within 15 working days of the date the documentation referred to in subsection (a)(2) of this section is received and the application approved.

(c)

Within 15 working days of the board's receipt of a request to renew a license or registration, the board office shall:

(1)

approve the request to renew the license; or

(2)

mail a letter of deficiency listing the documentation that must be submitted before the request for renewal shall be approved.

(d)

The licensee or registrant shall be notified within 15 working days of the date the documentation referred to in subsection (c)(2) of this section is received and the request to renew the license or registration is approved.

(e)

The board shall comply with the following procedures in reimbursement of fees.

(1)

In the event a request for a license or registration is not processed in the time periods stated in subsections (a)-(d) of this section, the applicant, licensee, or registrant has the right to request reimbursement of all fees paid in that particular application process. The request shall be submitted in writing to the executive secretary of the board. If the executive secretary does not agree that the time period has been violated or finds that good cause existed for exceeding the time period, the request shall be denied.

(2)

Good cause for exceeding the time period is considered to exist if:

(A)

the number of requests for new licenses, registrations, and renewals exceeds by 15% or more the number of requests in the same calendar quarter the preceding year;

(B)

another public or private entity relied upon by the board in the licensing process caused the delay; or

(C)

any other condition exists giving the board good cause for exceeding the time period.

(f)

If a request for reimbursement under subsection (e) of this section is denied by the executive secretary, the applicant may appeal to the presiding officer of the board for a timely resolution of the dispute arising from a violation of the time period.

(1)

The applicant, licensee, or registrant shall give written notice to the presiding officer that he or she requests full reimbursement of all fees paid because his or her request for a license or registration was not processed within the applicable time period.

(2)

The executive secretary shall submit a written report of the facts related to the processing of the application or renewal request and of any good cause for exceeding the applicable time period.

(3)

The presiding officer shall provide written notice of his or her decision to the applicant, licensee, or registrant and the executive secretary.

(4)

An appeal shall be decided in the applicant's, licensee's, or registrant's favor if the applicable time period was exceeded and good cause was not established. In which case, full reimbursement of all fees paid in that particular process shall be made to the applicant, licensee or registrant.

(g)

Contested cases related to the denial of license, registration, or renewal shall be handled in accordance with the provision of the Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004646

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter M. DENIAL, PROBATION, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION OF LICENSURE OR REGISTRATION

22 TAC §§741.191 - 741.201

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.191.Purpose.

§741.192.Basis for Denial, Probation, Suspension, or Revocation of Licensure or Registration.

§741.193.Complaint Procedures.

§741.194.Procedures for Denying, Suspending, or Revoking a License or Registration.

§741.195.Licensing or Registration of Individuals with Criminal Backgrounds.

§741.196.Formal Hearings.

§741.197.Surrender of License.

§741.198.Informal Disposition or Proceedings.

§741.199.Default Orders.

§741.200.Suspension of License for Failure to Pay Child Support.

§741.201.Schedule of Sanctions.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004647

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter N. DENIAL, PROBATION, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION OF LICENSURE OR REGISTRATION

22 TAC §§741.191 - 741.195

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These new sections affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.191.Basis for Denial, Probation, Suspension, or Revocation of a License or Registration.

(a)

The board may deny issuance of a license or initiate disciplinary action as defined in the Texas Occupations Code, §§401.451, 401.453, 401.458, and 401.459.

(b)

The complaints committee shall consider the following if an applicant, licensee, or registrant has a criminal conviction:

(1)

whether the conviction directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of a speech-language pathologist, audiologist, intern or assistant by:

(A)

the nature and seriousness of the crime;

(B)

the relationship of the crime to the purposes for requiring a licensee or registration to be a speech-language pathologist, audiologist, intern or assistant;

(C)

the extent to which a license or registration might afford an opportunity to repeat the criminal activity in which the individual had been involved; and

(D)

the relationship of the crime to the ability, capacity, or fitness required to perform the duties and discharge the responsibilities of a speech-language pathologist, audiologist, intern or assistant;

(2)

the extent and nature of the person's past criminal activity;

(3)

the age of the person at the time of the commission of the crime;

(4)

the amount of time that has elapsed since the person's last criminal activity;

(5)

the conduct and work activity of the person prior to and following the criminal activity;

(6)

evidence of the person's rehabilitation or rehabilitative effort while incarcerated or following release; and

(7)

other evidence of the person's present fitness, including letters of recommendation from prosecution, law enforcement, and correctional officers who prosecuted, arrested, or had custodial responsibility for the person; the sheriff and chief of police in the community where the person resides; and any other persons in contact with the convicted person.

(c)

The board may deny an application or revoke a license or registration upon felony conviction, felony probation revocation, revocation of parole, or revocation of mandatory supervision. The following felonies and misdemeanors directly relate because these criminal offenses indicate an inability or a tendency for the person to be unable to perform or to be unfit for licensure or registration:

(1)

the misdemeanor involving a violation of the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401;

(2)

a conviction relating to deceptive business practices;

(3)

a conviction relating to Medicare or Medicaid fraud;

(4)

a misdemeanor or felony offense involving:

(A)

murder;

(B)

assault;

(C)

burglary;

(D)

robbery;

(E)

theft;

(F)

sexual assault;

(G)

injury to a child;

(H)

injury to an elderly person;

(I)

child abuse or neglect;

(J)

tampering with a governmental record;

(K)

forgery;

(L)

perjury;

(M)

failure to report abuse;

(N)

bribery;

(O)

harassment; or

(P)

insurance claim fraud under the Texas Penal Code, §32.55;

(5)

a conviction relating to delivery, possession, manufacturing, or use of a controlled substance, dangerous drug, or narcotic; or

(6)

other misdemeanors or felonies, including convictions under the Texas Penal Code, Titles 4, 5, 7, 9, and 10, which indicate an inability or tendency for the person to be unable to perform as a licensee or registrant or unfit for licensure or registration if action by the board will promote the intent of this chapter; the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; and Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53, (concerning Consequences of Criminal Conviction).

(d)

The applicant, licensee or registrant shall be the responsible to the extent possible to secure and provide to the board the recommendations of the prosecution, law enforcement, and correctional authorities; furnish proof in such form as may be required by the board that he or she has maintained a record of steady employment and has supported his or her dependents and has otherwise maintained a record of good conduct, and has paid all outstanding court costs, supervision fees, fines, and restitution as may have been ordered in all criminal cases in which he or she has been convicted.

(e)

The board shall suspend the license or registration upon receipt of a final court or attorney general's order suspending a license due to failure to pay child support.

(f)

An application or renewal request may be denied if the applicant's license to practice speech-language pathology or audiology in another state or jurisdiction has been suspended, revoked, or otherwise restricted by the licensing entity in that state or jurisdiction for reasons relating to the applicant's professional competence or conduct which could adversely affect the health and welfare of a client.

(g)

The board shall have the authority to obtain from the Texas Department of Public Safety or from a local law enforcement agency the record of any conviction of any person applying for or holding a license or a registration from the board.

§741.192.Procedures for Filing a Complaint and Denying, Suspending, or Revoking a License or Registration.

(a)

In accordance with the Texas Occupations Code, §§401.251-401.253, the board shall investigate complaints filed against a licensee, registrant, or other person alleging violations of this chapter or the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401.

(b)

An individual shall report a complaint by notifying the executive secretary, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3183, telephone 1-800-942-5540 or (512) 834-6627.

(1)

The initial notification of a complaint may be in writing, by telephone, or by personal visit to the board office.

(2)

If the complainant did not submit an official complaint form as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.203, when initially notifying the board, the form shall be mailed. The complainant shall complete and returned the form to the board office with any supporting documentation.

(c)

The categories of complaints may include:

(1)

practicing without a license;

(2)

violation of the Code of Ethics;

(3)

practicing without appropriate supervision, if required; or

(4)

violation of any other law or rule enforced by the board.

(d)

The executive secretary or designee:

(1)

may notify the alleged violator of the complaint and request a written response within 30 days;

(2)

shall collect all information related to the complaint and forward to the Complaints Committee for review;

(3)

shall determine whether the complaint fits within the category of a serious complaint affecting health or safety of clients or other persons; and

(4)

shall maintain a complaint tracking system.

(e)

The complaints committee or designee may request a formal investigation.

(1)

The investigation may be conducted by an assigned Texas Department of Health investigator.

(2)

A private investigator may be used only if the Texas Department of Health's investigators available to the board have a conflict of interest.

(3)

The investigator shall always attempt to contact the complainant to discuss the complaint.

(f)

After the investigation has been completed, the investigator shall submit his or her findings to the executive secretary or designee who shall then forward the report to the complaints committee. The written investigative report shall set out all pertinent facts obtained during the investigation and may include supporting documentation.

(g)

If the complaints committee determines that there are insufficient grounds to support or act upon the complaint, the committee may dismiss the complaint and give written notice of the dismissal, explaining why this action was taken, to the complainant and the respondent. The committee will report to the board that the complaint was dismissed and the reason for dismissal.

(h)

If the complaints committee determines that a violation exists and that the violation is not a serious complaint affecting the health and safety of clients or other persons, the committee may resolve the complaint by issuing a cease and desist or warning letter to the respondent to correct the violation. If the complaints committee determines that a reprimand should be issued, the committee shall make that recommendation to the board. Section 741.193 of this title (relating to Formal Hearings; Surrender of License or Registration) shall not apply to this subsection.

(i)

If the complaints committee determines that there are sufficient grounds to support the complaint, the committee shall:

(1)

notify the respondent of the results of the investigation and the proposed disciplinary action by certified mail, return receipt requested, of the facts or conduct alleged to warrant revocation or suspension;

(2)

give the respondent an opportunity, as described in the notice, to show compliance with all requirements of the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this chapter; and

(3)

within 10 days of the respondent's receipt of the notice, which is presumed to occur on the 10th day after the notice is mailed to the last address known to the board unless another date is reflected on a United States Postal Service return receipt, the respondent may:

(A)

request a hearing before an administrative law judge;

(B)

request an informal settlement conference;

(C)

surrender the license; or

(D)

enter into an agreed order to suspend or revoke the license or accept probated suspension or other disciplinary action.

(j)

If denial of a license is proposed, the board shall give written notice that the applicant shall request, in writing, a formal hearing within 10 days of receipt of the notice, or the right to a hearing shall be waived and the license or registration shall be denied. The notice shall include the reason for denial, if applicable. Receipt of the notice is presumed to occur on the 10th day after the notice is mailed to the last address known to the board unless another date is reflected on a United States Postal Service return receipt.

(k)

If a respondent does not respond as required by subsection (i) or (j) of this section, the formal hearing is deemed to be waived, and the board shall enter a default order as defined in §741.193 of this title. Receipt of the notice is presumed to occur on the 10th day after the notice is mailed to the last address known to the board unless another date is reflected on a United States Postal Service return receipt.

(l)

Following due process as defined in §741.193 of this title, the complaints committee shall recommend to the board that a license or registration be denied, revoked, suspended, or that other appropriate action as authorized by law be taken.

(m)

On receipt of a final court or attorney general's order suspending a license due to failure to pay child support, the executive secretary shall immediately determine if the board has issued a license or registration to the individual named on the order. If a license or registration has been issued, the executive secretary shall:

(1)

record the suspension of the license or registration in the board's records;

(2)

report the suspension as appropriate;

(3)

demand the surrender of the suspended license;

(4)

implement the terms of a final court or attorney general's order suspending a license without additional review or hearing;

(5)

provide notice as appropriate to the licensee or to others concerned with the license; and

(6)

not modify, remand, reverse, vacate, or stay a court or attorney general's order suspending a license issued under the Texas Family Code, Chapter 232, and may not review, vacate, or reconsider the terms of an order.

(n)

A licensee or registrant who is the subject of a final court or attorney general's order suspending his or her license under subsection (m) of this section shall:

(1)

not be entitled to a refund for any fee paid to the board;

(2)

comply with the normal renewal procedures in the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this chapter if a suspension overlaps a license renewal period; however, the license will not be renewed until conditions stated in paragraph (4) of this subsection are met;

(3)

be liable for the same civil and criminal penalties provided for engaging in the prohibited activity without a license or while a license is suspended as any other license holder of the board if he or she continues to practice or represent himself or herself as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist after the issuance of a court or attorney general's order suspending the license; and

(4)

pay a reinstatement fee set out in §741.181 of this title (relating to Schedule of Fees) prior to issuance of the license if, upon receipt of a court or attorney general's order vacating or staying an order suspending a license, the licensee or registrant is otherwise qualified for the license or registration.

(o)

If the board suspends a license or registration, the suspension shall remain in effect until the board determines that the reason for the suspension no longer exists or for the period of time stated in the order.

(p)

If a suspension overlaps a license or registration renewal date, the individual whose license or registration is suspended may comply with the renewal procedures in this chapter; however, the board shall not renew the license or registration until the board determines that the reason for the suspension no longer exists, the period of suspension is completed, or the licensee is complying with the conditions of the probation.

(q)

If a license or registration suspension is probated, the board may require the license or registration holder to:

(1)

report regularly to the board on matters that are the basis of the probation;

(2)

limit practice to the areas prescribed by the board; or

(3)

continue or review continuing professional education until the license or registration holder attains a degree of skill satisfactory to the board in those areas that are the basis of the probation.

(r)

The executive secretary shall monitor each license or registration against whom a board order is issued to ascertain that the licensee performs the required acts. Any failure to meet the conditions shall be reported to the complaints committee for review. The complaints committee may consider more severe disciplinary proceedings if non-compliance occurs.

(s)

Upon revocation, suspension, or non-renewal, a licensee or registrant shall return his or her license, certificate or registration to the board.

(t)

A license or registration may be reinstated as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §401.457.

(u)

If the board denies an initial license, renewal, or registration request, a person may reapply for a license or registration, if applicable, by complying with the then-existing requirements and procedures for application. The board may refuse to issue a license or registration if the reason for the denial continues to exist.

§741.193.Formal Hearings; Surrender of License or Registration.

(a)

The State Office of Administrative Hearings shall conduct all formal hearings and contested cases in accordance with the Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001 et seq.

(b)

All formal hearings unless otherwise determined by the administrative law judge or upon agreement of the parties shall be held in Austin, Texas.

(c)

If the applicant, licensee, or registrant fails to appear or be represented at the scheduled hearing, the person is deemed to be in agreement with the charges and proposed action and to have waived the right to a hearing.

(d)

A witness or deponent shall be paid in accordance with the Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001.103.

(e)

Following the hearing an administrative law judge shall submit the proposal for decision to the board for its approval.

(1)

The board is not required to adopt the proposal for decision and may take action as it deems appropriate and lawful.

(2)

All final orders or decisions shall be made by the board.

(f)

If a right to a hearing is waived under §741.192(k) of this title (relating to Procedures for Filing a Complaint and Denying, Suspending or Revoking a License or Registration), the board shall consider an order denying, suspending, probating, or revoking the license or registration as described in written notice to the licensee, registrant, or applicant.

(1)

The licensee, registrant, or applicant and the complainant shall be notified of the date, time, and place of the board meeting at which the default order will be considered. Attendance is voluntary.

(2)

Upon an affirmative majority vote, the board shall enter an order imposing appropriate disciplinary action.

(g)

A licensee or registrant may offer to surrender the license or registration to the board. The board shall:

(1)

notify the licensee or registrant that the request was received and

(2)

consider accepting the voluntary surrender of the license or registration at its next regularly scheduled meeting;

(h)

When a licensee or registrant has offered the surrender of the license or registration after a complaint has been filed alleging violations of the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this chapter, and the board has accepted such a surrender, that surrender is deemed to be the result of a formal disciplinary action.

(i)

A license or registration which has been surrendered and accepted may not be reinstated; however, that person may apply for a new license or registration in accordance with the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this chapter.

§741.194.Informal Disposition or Proceedings.

(a)

Informal disposition of any complaint or contested case involving a licensee, registrant, or an applicant for licensure or registration may be made through an informal settlement conference held to determine whether an agreed settlement order may be approved in accordance with the Texas Occupations Code, §401.455.

(b)

Procedures established in §741.193 of this title (relating to Formal Hearings; Surrender of License or Registration) shall not apply. An informal settlement conference shall not be a prerequisite to a formal hearing.

(c)

The provisions of this section shall apply if the executive secretary or the complaints committee of the board determines that the public interest might by served by attempting to resolve a complaint or contested case by an agreed order in lieu of a formal hearing.

(d)

A licensee, registrant, or applicant may request an informal settlement conference; however, the decision to hold a conference shall be made by the executive secretary.

(e)

A licensee's or registrant's opportunity for an informal conference under this section shall satisfy the requirement of the Administrative Procedure Act, Texas Government Code, §2001.054(c).

(1)

If the executive secretary determines that an informal conference shall not be held, the executive secretary shall give written notice to the licensee, registrant, or applicant of the facts or conduct alleged to warrant the intended disciplinary action and the licensee, registrant, or applicant shall be given the opportunity to show, in writing, and as described in the notice, compliance with all requirements of the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401, and this chapter.

(2)

The complainant shall be sent a copy of the written notice. The complainant shall be informed that he or she may also submit a written statement to the board office.

(f)

If it is agreed that an informal settlement conference should be held, the executive secretary or designee shall:

(1)

decide upon the time, date, and place; and

(2)

provide written notice to the licensee, registrant, or applicant or to the licensee's, registrant's, or applicant's legal counsel.

(g)

The notice of the informal settlement conference, which includes the time, date, and place of the conference, shall be sent with a copy of this section of the board's rules no less than 10 days prior to the date of the conference by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the last known address of the licensee, registrant, or applicant. Receipt of the notice is presumed to occur on the 10th day after the notice is mailed to the last address known to the board unless another date is reflected on a United States Postal Service return receipt. The 10 days shall begin on the date of mailing or delivery. The licensee, registrant, or applicant may waive the 10 day notice requirement.

(h)

During the conference these procedures shall apply:

(1)

the licensee, registrant, or applicant may be represented by legal counsel;

(2)

the licensee, registrant, or applicant may appear and testify or may submit a written statement for consideration;

(3)

the licensee, registrant, or applicant may offer the testimony of witnesses and present other evidence as may be appropriate;

(4)

a member of the complaints committee may be present;

(5)

the board's legal counsel shall be present;

(6)

the licensee's, registrant's, or applicant's, attendance and participation is voluntary;

(7)

the complainant and any client involved in the alleged violations may be present; and

(8)

the settlement conference shall be canceled if the licensee, registrant, or applicant notifies the executive secretary or the board's legal counsel that he or she or his or her legal counsel will not attend.

(i)

The executive secretary or designee shall notify the complainant if the conference is canceled.

(j)

Access to the board's investigative file may be prohibited or limited in accordance with the law relating to open records, Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, and the Administrative Procedure Act, Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001, and Article 4512, §24A.

(k)

At the discretion of the executive secretary or a complaints committee member, a tape recording may or may not be made of none or all of the settlement conference.

(l)

The board's legal counsel or an attorney from the Office of the Attorney General shall attend each settlement conference. The complaints committee member or executive secretary may call upon the attorney at any time for assistance in the settlement conference.

(m)

The complaints committee member, executive secretary, or board's legal counsel shall exclude from the settlement conference all persons except witnesses during their testimony, the licensee or registrant, the licensee's or registrant's attorney, board staff, and board's legal counsel.

(n)

The complainant shall not be considered a party in the settlement conference but shall be given the opportunity to be heard if the complainant attends. Any written statement submitted by the complainant shall be reviewed at the conference.

(o)

The licensee or registrant, the licensee's or registrant's attorney, complaints committee member, board staff, and board's legal counsel may:

(1)

question witnesses;

(2)

make relevant statements;

(3)

present statements of persons not in attendance; and

(4)

present such other evidence as may be appropriate.

(p)

The licensee, registrant, or applicant shall be afforded the opportunity to make statements that are material and relevant.

(q)

At the conclusion of the settlement conference, the complaints committee member or executive secretary may make recommendations for informal disposition of the complaint or contested case. The recommendations may include any disciplinary action authorized by the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401. The committee member may also:

(1)

conclude that the board lacks jurisdiction;

(2)

conclude that a violation of the Occupations Code, Chapter 401, or this chapter has not been established;

(3)

order that the investigation be closed; or

(4)

refer the matter for further investigation.

(r)

The licensee, registrant, or applicant may either accept or reject at the conference the settlement recommendations. If the recommendations are accepted, an agreed settlement order shall be prepared by the board office or the board's legal counsel and forwarded to the licensee, registrant, or applicant. The order shall contain agreed findings of fact and conclusions of law.

(s)

If the licensee, registrant, or applicant:

(1)

agrees to the settlement recommendations, he or she shall return the signed order to the board office within 10 days of his or her receipt of the order;

(2)

fails to return the signed order within the stated time period, the inaction shall constitute rejection of the settlement recommendations; or

(3)

rejects the proposed settlement, the matter shall be referred to the executive secretary for appropriate action.

(t)

If the licensee, registrant, or applicant signs and accepts the recommendations, the agreed order shall be submitted to the entire board for its approval. Placement of the agreed order on the board agenda shall constitute only a recommendation for approval by the board.

(u)

The identity of the licensee, registrant, or applicant shall not be made available to the board until after the board has reviewed and accepted the agreed order unless the licensee, registrant or applicant chooses to attend the board meeting. The licensee, registrant, or applicant shall be notified of the date, time, and place of the board meeting at which the proposed agreed order will be considered. Attendance by the licensee, registrant, or applicant is voluntary.

(v)

Upon an affirmative majority vote, the board shall enter an agreed order approving the accepted settlement recommendations. The board may not change the terms of a proposed order but may only approve or disapprove an agreed order unless the licensee, or registrant, or applicant is present at the board meeting and agrees to other terms proposed by the board.

(w)

If the board does not approve a proposed agreed order, the licensee, registrant, or applicant and the complainant shall be so informed. The matter shall be referred to the executive secretary for other appropriate action.

(x)

A proposed agreed order is not effective until the full board has approved the agreed order. The order shall then be effective in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001.

§741.195.Schedule of Sanctions.

(a)

When the Board determines that sanctions are appropriate, proposals for imposition of sanctions shall be made in accordance with the Texas Occupations Code, §401.451.

(b)

Sanctions shall be determined by the following:

(1)

the seriousness of the violation(s);

(2)

previous compliance history;

(3)

the severity level necessary to deter future violations;

(4)

efforts to correct the violation; and

(5)

any other extenuating circumstances.

(c)

Severity levels shall be categorized by one of the following severity levels:

(1)

severity level I - violations that are most significant and have a direct negative impact upon the health, safety or welfare of the public;

(2)

severity level II - violations that are very significant and have impact upon the health, safety or welfare of the public;

(3)

severity level III - violations that are significant and which, if not corrected, could threaten the health, safety or welfare of the public;

(4)

severity level IV - violations that are of more than minor significance, but if left uncorrected, could lead to more serious circumstances; and

(5)

severity level V - violations that are minor infractions.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004648

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236


Subchapter N. PUBLICATIONS

22 TAC §§741.301 - 741.303

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Texas Occupations Code, §401.202, which provides the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology with the authority to adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce Chapter 401 of the Texas Occupations Code, and §401.204 which provides the Board with authority to set fees in amounts that are reasonable and necessary to collect sufficient revenue to cover the costs of administration of the Code.

These repeals affect the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 303; Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36 and 47; and Texas Government Code, §2001.039.

§741.301.Publication of Directory, Addendum, and Newsletter.

§741.302.Consumer Information.

§741.303.Other Publications.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 3, 2000.

TRD-200004649

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan

Presiding Officer

State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Earliest possible date of adoption: August 20, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-7236