AN ACT relating to audiologists.
     Amend various sections of KRS Chapters 334 and 334A to allow audiologists to fit and sell hearing aids and instruments under a regular audiologist license, rather than requiring separate licensure by the hearing instrument specialist board; create a new section of KRS Chapter 334, relating to hearing instrument specialists, and a new section of KRS Chapter 334A, relating to speech-language pathologists and audiologists, to eliminate hearing instrument specialist board jurisdiction over a licensed audiologist who fits and sells hearing instruments on the earlier of January 30, 2007, or the date the audiologist is issued an initial audiologist license, license renewal, or reinstatement; amend KRS 334A.020 to expand the definitions for "audiologist" and "the practice of audiology"; define "hearing instrument"; amend KRS 334A.080 to require the speech-language pathology and audiology board to promulgate administrative regulations relating to hearing instrument customer contracts and approved brands and models of hearing instruments; amend KRS 304.17A-132, relating to insurance coverage for hearing aids, to approve hearing aids dispensed by either an audiologist licensed under KRS Chapter 334A or a hearing instrument specialist licensed under KRS Chapter 334; make technical corrections.

     Jan 31-introduced in Senate
     Feb 2-to Licensing, Occupations & Administrative Regulations (S)