I strongly oppose the proposal that initial licensure for Speech Language Pathologists would no longer need the Certificate of Clinical Competence.  The CCC is the culmination of earning a master’s degree, working for a year under the mentorship of a certified SLP ( the Clinical Fellowship Year), and then passing a national exam through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).  It verifies that the individual possesses the highest qualifications for the field.  A public school SLP treats children with every disability imaginable.  I understand that SLPs are in short supply, but hiring any but the very best professionals for this very important job is not the answer! It is short-sighted and not in the best interest of the children who so desperately need the services.  We as a state would not consider licensing other health professionals without the highest level of qualifications. Why would we do it for SLPs, save for expediency? Please don’t do this!