A bill for an act establishing the dentist and dental hygienist compact.(See HF 656.)
Impact
The compact creates minimum licensing requirements that each participating state must adhere to, including provisions for criminal background checks and the acceptance of national examinations. It empowers participating states to regulate dental practices within their borders while also enabling the sharing of disciplinary actions and licensure information across states. This aims to maintain public safety and ensure quality care standards while enhancing the efficiency of the regulatory framework governing dental professions.
Summary
House Study Bill 220 establishes the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, a regulatory framework aimed at facilitating the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene. The compact allows licensed professionals from one participating state to practice in another without undergoing the typical burdensome licensing process. The intent is to improve public access to dental services by promoting mobility among licensed professionals, thereby addressing workforce shortages in the dental sector.
Contention
However, the establishment of this compact may face scrutiny and debate. Critics may express concerns about the adequacy of the regulatory oversight provided by states that join the compact. There may also be apprehensions about how the compact’s enactment could affect local regulations and standards of care. Supporters argue that the benefits of increased access to dental care and improved workforce mobility justify the measures taken under this initiative.