Practice of dentistry; modifying various provisions of the State Dental Act. Effective date.
Impact
The implications of SB1929 are substantial, as it aims to streamline the process for dental professionals seeking licensure and to enhance the scope of practice for certain roles within the dental industry. This bill effectively broadens eligibility for specialized licenses, particularly for volunteer efforts, thus encouraging dental professionals, especially those in military service or retired individuals, to contribute to public health initiatives without the traditional barriers associated with licensing fees and continuing education requirements. Additionally, it provides specific allowances for practices during declared emergencies, enabling quicker responses to public health needs.
Summary
Senate Bill 1929 amends the State Dental Act to expand the powers of the Board of Dentistry and modify definitions and procedures related to dental practice. This bill encompasses significant changes, including the adjustment of licensure requirements for dental hygienists and dental assistants, allowing for new advanced procedures to be performed under specified conditions. The intention behind these adaptations is to enable a more flexible and responsive dental practice environment that can better meet the needs of the community, particularly during emergencies or public health crises.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB1929 is mixed but leans towards support from the dental community, particularly among those advocating for increased access to dental care. Supporters argue that the modifications will reduce unnecessary barriers to practice and promote volunteerism in public health. However, some concerns have been raised about the potential impacts on patient safety and the adequacy of training for expanded procedures, reflecting ongoing debates about maintaining quality in dental care while increasing accessibility.
Contention
One notable point of contention regarding SB1929 is the balance it strikes between expanding duties for dental professionals and maintaining strict oversight to ensure patient safety. While the bill aims to enhance the ability of dental hygienists and dental assistants to perform advanced procedures, there are concerns that such expansions could lead to a dilution of standards if not adequately regulated. Continuous debates highlight the importance of ensuring that the regulations in place not only support the growth of the dental profession but also safeguard the health and well-being of patients receiving dental care.
Practice of nursing; providing for independent prescriptive authority of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses who meet certain requirements; modifying various provisions of the Oklahoma Pharmacy Act and the Oklahoma Nursing Practice Act. Effective date.
Practice of nursing; eliminating supervision requirement for Certified Nurse-Midwife; modifying various provisions of the Oklahoma Pharmacy Act and the Oklahoma Nursing Practice Act. Effective date.
Medical marijuana; modifying application method for certain entities; modifying various action duties and functions of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority. Effective date.
Professions and occupations; modifying various provisions of the State Architectural and Registered Commercial Interior Designers Act; effective date; emergency.
Unfair insurance practices; modifying rebate actions to be considered unfair methods of competition or unfair and deceptive acts in the business of insurance. Effective date.