Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Talking Points

Many states are addressing the topic of speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) regulations. While ASHA provides guidance on best practice in its scope of practice, only your state licensing entity and department of education can enact the laws and regulations for this profession. These laws and regulations take precedence over the ASHA SLPA scope of practice.

What Can You Tell Your Legislators About Why SLPAs Should Be Regulated?

Regulations will clearly define SLPAs’ scope and role.
Defining SLPAs’ scope will provide both consumer protections and provider protections by clarifying what services SLPAs have the training and experience to provide.
Regulations can help address the shortage of SLPs and free up SLPs to address their patients’ more complex needs.
Title protections in laws will protect SLPAs’ scope of practice against infringement by others.
Many states already regulate SLPAs via licensure, certification, or registration.
Regulations can ensure that SLPAs meet continuing education requirements so they stay up to speed on issues pertinent to their practice.
Regulations can hold SLPAs to ethical standards.

What Can You Do to Support SLPA Regulation in Your State?

Contact ASHA at states@asha.org or your state association to determine whether legislation and/or regulations have been introduced in your state.
Respond to requests from ASHA and your state association to send letters to your legislators and/or regulators on this issue.
Check with your state association to see if there is an SLPA task force or working group that you can participate in.
Work with your state association leadership to see if you can testify or offer expertise on pending legislation or regulations.
Participate in any webinars, town halls, or conferences offered by your state association to learn more about this issue.