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Policy development and strategy in the licensure of speech pathologists and audiologists.

This article presents an account of the licensure movement in the professions of speech pathology and audiology and the role of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) in that movement. The introductory section relates the evolution of ASHA's position on licensure from one of opposition in the 1960's to the current position of active support, whereas the body of the article delineates the processes by which three state speech and hearing associations initiated and brought to fruition their licensure efforts. The conclusion of the article summarizes the legislative recommendations made by ASHA members from the 25 states that have enacted licensure laws. These recommendations cover such areas as organizing a licensure effort, garnering support from professional and other groups, and managing the bill in the state legislature. The author concludes that, while the profession has benefited from its licensure achievements, efforts to protect present gains and secure new ones must continue.