Cassie Deffenbaugh

Key discussion topics for the agenda included an Open Forum for the public, the adoption of the agenda itself, review of the Financial Report, and an Office Update. New business was scheduled to cover fiscal year 2027 Board Operations, Board Policies, Continuing Education Guidelines, Board Officer Elections, the NAB Delegate Appointment, and the March 2027 Board Meeting Schedule. The agenda also listed discussions on License Applications.

Key discussions during the meeting included a presentation of year-to-date and fiscal year-end financial updates as of November 30, 2025, and June 30, 2025, respectively. The Board also reviewed an overview of South Dakota's Open Meeting Laws as required by statute. Following discussion regarding the operational status of the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC), the board resolved to monitor its progression. Furthermore, the Board ratified application approvals for various Hearing Aid Dispenser and Audiologist licenses issued between July 2025 and early January 2026. The board also discussed and subsequently granted the investigative committee standing authority to dismiss complaints under SDCL 36-1C-4, and approved the renewal of the executive secretary contract for FY27.

This strategic plan serves as a roadmap for improving the health and well-being of individuals affected by Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) in South Dakota. It outlines five overarching goals: strengthening state, community, and tribal partnerships; engaging and educating the public; building a diverse and skilled workforce; equipping and empowering individuals and caregivers; and utilizing data to drive action and improve outcomes. The plan aims to foster a supportive and informed environment for individuals and families living with ADRD, establishing a coordinated and equitable response to dementia across the state.

The meeting commenced with the introduction of a new licensee board member, Leslie Nuckles, and Interim Legal Counsel, Beverly Katz. The agenda was approved following an amendment regarding the next meeting date. The open forum included discussion on carry-over items, budget, and proposed legislation status from 2025. The Executive Secretary reported on the financial status for the month ending January 31, 2026, noting available funds and cash center balance. The 2026 legislative bill for massage therapy was not approved for introduction. The committee voted to dismiss Complaint 2025-003, which was formally recorded. The board clarified continuing education requirements for new licensees and license reactivation applicants regarding the completion timeframe. The board discussed pursuing administrative rule changes concerning the approval pathway for massage therapy schools. Finally, board member Les Nuckles was appointed as the Education Committee to review transcripts for out-of-state applicants when verification forms are difficult to obtain.

The meeting included the approval of a revised consent agenda following a motion to move a disciplinary item to later in the agenda. Operational reports noted that the RFP for new licensing software and a new website is awaiting Department of Health approval, and the introduction of a new senior secretary. Inspector reports detailed findings from recent inspections, including issues with USP 800 compliance, inappropriate items in pharmacy refrigerators, and inadequate control over medication storage and handling in various facilities, prompting discussion on expanding the board's inspection authority over non-pharmacy entities dispensing medication. Office topics centered on refining rules regarding technician supervision, particularly the definition of "immediate supervision," and the potential elimination of guidance documents contradicting current law/rules. Following an executive session, the Board stipulated and approved probation for a pharmacist's license. New business included legislative updates, the election of officers (Curt Rising as President and Tom Nelson as Vice President), and a discussion on continuing education credits for meeting attendance. An education segment focused on DSCSA compliance and preparation strategies for inspections, including compiling compliance binders.