Committee advances bill expanding standards for fitting and dispensing prescription hearing aids

The Health Care and Wellness committee reported Substitute Senate Bill 6,226 out of committee on Feb. 25 after adopting an amendment (3‑13) to clarify patient‑safety standards and respect clinical judgment. Sponsors said the bill expands the Board of Hearing and Speech’s authority to adopt evidence‑based safety procedures for fitting and dispensing prescription hearing aids and adds references to speech‑language pathologists and hearing‑aid specialists alongside audiologists.

Representative Shavers, who moved amendment 3‑13, described it as a "clean and practical update" focused on patient safety, clear standards and professional autonomy. Supporters emphasized the role of telehealth and tele‑audiology to expand access for rural and mobility‑limited patients; Representative Shavers said regulation should be modality‑agnostic so the standard of care is the same whether care is delivered in person or remotely.

Representative Valdez said she initially supported the bill but raised concerns after hearing testimony, noting worries about in‑person fittings and the possibility of out‑of‑state providers offering care with limited recourse for Washington patients. Valdez cited the SmileDirectClub experience as a cautionary example and voiced a no vote. Supporters argued the amendment and bill include safeguards; the committee adopted the amendment and reported the bill out by roll call.

Staff announced the final tally at 17 ayes, 1 nay and 1 excused; the bill was reported out of committee with a due‑pass recommendation. Sponsors said the bill aims to preserve clinician judgment while expanding access, particularly for rural residents.