• New Laser Hair Removal Rules
• Texas DSHS Proposed Rules Relating to Vision, Hearing and Spinal Screenings Now Open For Comment
• Proposed Rule Changes Will Affect Texas SLP Assistants and Supervisors
• Expert Witnesses Needed In Several Programs

• 89th Legislative Session Recap
• Rule Amendments For Multiple Professions Proposed And Adopted Recently
• HHSC Revises Human Trafficking Prevention Training Standards
• TDLR Begins Process To Acquire New Licensing Database System
• Changes to Temporary License Eligibility For Athletic Trainers
• Podiatry Radiation Tech Registration Update
• Hearing Instrument Fitters And Dispensers New Continuing Education Requirements

89th Texas Legislature Convenes In January
FDA Authorizes First Over-The-Counter Hearing Aid Software
Multiple Rule Amendments Adopted
Health Professions Word Scramble

• Proposed Rules
• TDLR Strategic Planning Process
• Closer Look at Athletic Trainer Examinations
• TDLR Makes University Visits

• Brian Francis Returns Temporarily To TDLR
• Rule Changes For Multiple Programs Approved
• Many Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Licensees Will Need To Resubmit Fingerprints
• Human Trafficking Awareness Month

• New Fingerprints May Be Required For Some Licensees
• New Opioid CME Requirements For Prescribers
• Laser Hair Removal Penalty Matrix Adopted
• Texas Massage Therapist Exam Now Available In Simplified Chinese

Please note that no changes were made, and Dyslexia Therapy program licensees are still required to obtain continuing education (CE) credits as specified in the program rules.

We currently have a shortage of Behavior Analyst, Podiatrist, and Speech-Language Pathologist SMEs.

If you are interested in becoming a SME, please complete the Expert Witness Application. Once the application is submitted, you will receive a questionnaire to complete and return. Documents are screened and contracts are issued to approved SMEs.

All SMEs receive training on their role in reviewing complaint cases. Tasks may include the following:

• Reviewing documents and statements collected by investigators.
• Writing a report stating an opinion as to whether the respondent violated a rule or law in the provision of care to a client.
• Answering specific questions from the prosecutor about the case.
• Testifying as a witness for TDLR at hearings.

Our mission is to protect the citizens of Texas and the hard-working members of your profession. We cannot do that without your specialized knowledge of the complexities of your profession. Please consider becoming a SME today.