Establishes the Dental and Dental Hygienist Compact
Impact
The bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding the regulation of dental professionals. With SB327, participating states will maintain the authority to regulate the practice of dentistry and dental hygiene within their borders. However, the compact allows for shared licensing and disciplinary information among the states, making it easier to track professional conduct across jurisdictions. This could lead to more consistent regulatory practices and potentially improve public health outcomes by ensuring access to qualified dental professionals.
Summary
SB327, known as the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, aims to facilitate the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene while improving public access to these services. The bill establishes a framework that allows licensed Dentists and Dental Hygienists in participating states to practice in other states without having to endure the often burdensome and duplicative processes involved in obtaining a separate license. This compact is designed not only to enhance mobility for professionals but also to meet workforce shortages in the dental field by streamlining licensure across state lines.
Contention
Despite the benefits, there are points of contention associated with the bill. Some stakeholders may be concerned about the implications of allowing dental professionals to practice across state lines without stringent oversight, which could vary from state to state. Furthermore, the compact provides that military members and their spouses may not have to pay certain fees to obtain licensure, which could attract mixed reactions from those paying the standard fees, potentially leading to discussions about equity in the licensing process. Overall, while the intent is to enhance service delivery and access, the varying state regulations and standards may lead to challenges in implementation.
Establishes provisions relating to licensure of dentists and dental hygienists, including license reciprocity and the Dental and Dental Hygienist Compact
Exempts corporations contracted with the state to provide dental care in correctional centers from the requirements for corporation licensure to practice dentistry