Madison, WI – Today, Assembly Bill 820, introduced by Representative Cindi Duchow (R–Delafield), received a public hearing and was approved by the Assembly Committee on Licensing Reform. AB 820 updates statutes relating to audiologists to help keep Wisconsin competitive as the field continues to expand with updated education and training practices. The bill was drafted with input from the Wisconsin Academy of Audiology, a professional association focused on enhancing and promoting the integrity of audiology.
The bill modernizes the scope of practice by updating the statutory definition of audiology to align with current professional training standards. With appropriate education and demonstrated competency, licensed audiologists would be permitted to perform services they are already trained to provide, such as earwax removal; ordering laboratory tests and screening imaging; and prescribing non-controlled medications. The bill also explicitly preserves patient safety by prohibiting surgery and the interpretation of radiographic images.
“Wisconsin continues to face shortages in our healthcare workforce. This bill is a great step to keep talented audiologists here, rather than leaving to practice in another state with laws that reflect their education and training,” said Rep. Duchow.
AB 820 awaits scheduling for an Assembly floor vote, and a companion bill has yet to be introduced in the State Senate.
