Welcome Home Act
In accordance with Act 253 of the 2024 Louisiana Legislative Session, the Louisiana Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (LBESPA) will offer licensure by reciprocity to applicants currently licensed in another state. Licensure by reciprocity in Louisiana allows applicants who hold a current and valid license in another state to expand their career opportunities within Louisiana. To qualify for licensure via the Welcome Home Act, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicant lives in Louisiana and can provide proof of residency;
- Applicant holds a current and valid license in another state with a similar scope of practice;
- Applicant has held the license for atleast one year;
- Applicant's home state mandates passing an exam or meeting education, training or experience standards;
- Applicant is in "good standing" in the home state;
- Applicant complies with LBESPA's background check procedures;
- Applicant has no pending disciplinary action or investigation in another state.
Please indicate your intention to apply for licensure via the Welcome Home Act by emailing mricca@lbespa.org after submitting your online application. In the subject line write "Licensure via Welcome Home Act" and provide proof of residency.
Applicants who do not meet the requirements of the Welcome Home Act may still apply for a license through the traditional application process.