Relating to: the practice of audiology, licensure of audiologists, the composition of the Hearing and Speech Examining Board, and repealing an administrative rule related to the practical examination of audiologists. (FE)
SB 860 updates Wisconsin's audiology licensing rules by expanding the scope of practice for audiologists. It explicitly allows audiologists to prescribe, sell, and fit hearing aids (including over-the-counter options) and handle devices like cochlear implants and osseo-integrated systems. The bill also clarifies that audiologists cannot perform surgeries, interpret radiographic imaging, or conduct surgical procedures. Additionally, it changes the Hearing and Speech Examining Board composition to require one public member who uses hearing aids, cochlear implants, or osseo-integrated devices, and repeals outdated temporary license rules.
Bill status
failed
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 23, 2026
Last action Mar 23, 2026
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
11
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Amendments
2
Feb 10, 2026
Upper · Passed
Report passage as amended recommended by Committee on Health, Ayes 3, Noes 2
upper
Feb 10, 2026
Upper · Passed
Report adoption of Senate Substitute Amendment 1 recommended by Committee on Health, Ayes 3, Noes 2
upper
Jan 29, 2026
Introduced
Senate Substitute Amendment 1 offered by Senator Cabral-Guevara
upper
Jan 23, 2026
Introduced
Introduced by Senators Cabral-Guevara and Ratcliff;
cosponsored by Representatives Duchow, Subeck, Billings, DeSmidt, Dittrich, Donovan, Doyle, Goeben, Goodwin, Kirsch, Knodl, O'Connor, Palmeri, Sinicki, Stubbs and Udell
upper
2 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Ask Maddy
·
AI policy assistant
Ask Maddy about SB 860
Scope: WI
Hi! I can help you understand SB 860. What would you like to know?
Try one of these
i
Maddy answers using official bill text and legislative records. Always verify before sharing.
Sources cited inline