I am writing to provide feedback on the proposed changes to the speech-language pathology licensing regulations in Virginia. 

Frist, I would like to see a continued requirement for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC). Maintaining our CCC's as a license requirement is essential to ensuring that all practicing SLP's uphold their standard of knowledge and competency in our field. The CCC's certification demonstrates each SLP's dedication to providing evidence based therapy, upholding their clinical skills and remaining up to date with our ever changing field. The certificate of clinical competence also serves at the only mechanism for reported ethics violations in Virginia. We need to uphold this ethical standard for all practitioners. 

Second, I agree and support the need for ongoing professional education. I believe that maintaining ASHA- approved continuing education is vital for consistency as well as credibility across the field of speech pathology. I also believe that we need to uphold this standard as it demonstrates our competence in this field. 

Third, I strongly oppose the distinction between school-based and other speech-language pathologists. Differentiation of fee's between settings of employment creates barriers across our profession. Many SLP's work in two settings and if this proposition passes many SLP's would need two licenses within one state. We need to hold all SLP's to the same standards. The section on prohibited conduct that restricts school-based SLPs from practicing outside the public school setting should be repealed. 

Thank you for your dedication to reviewing these standard. I urge consideration to the above points. Thank you.