State Rep. Joseph Pavlov recently voted in favor of legislation to expand access to health care by allowing audiologists and speech-language pathologists licensed in other states to practice in Michigan through an interstate compact.

House Bill 4509 enters Michigan into the Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact, which allows qualified healthcare workers to obtain a license to practice across all member states. The compact offers an optional, streamlined pathway for those who move between states or wish to serve patients in multiple states, including through telemedicine.

“This compact helps ensure that Michigan families can access the hearing and speech care they need, whether in person or online,” said Pavlov, R-Kimball Township. “By joining this agreement, we’re cutting red tape for our health professionals and opening doors for patients in rural and underserved communities. This is an important step to build up our healthcare workforce and expand care options for everyone in Michigan.”

The Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact now includes 36 member states and is expected to begin issuing licenses later this year. House Bill 4509 passed in the House and is now awaiting action in the state Senate.