Relating to the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact; authorizing fees.
Under this Compact, participating states can ensure that licensed professionals adhere to specific state regulations while also benefiting from streamlined processes for recognizing licenses issued by other states. Additionally, this bill allows for improved sharing of licensure and disciplinary information among states, enhancing accountability and ensuring that public health and safety standards are maintained. The impact will be particularly significant for military families, as the Compact facilitates the relocation of active military members and their spouses who are licensed to practice dentistry or dental hygiene, by exempting them from certain fees associated with obtaining a Compact Privilege.
SB1109, known as the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, aims to facilitate the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene. The bill authorizes participating states to allow dentists and dental hygienists licensed in one state to practice in another state without needing to satisfy separate licensing requirements. This is intended to improve public access to dental services and address workforce shortages in dental care by promoting the mobility of licensed professionals across state lines. The Compact is designed to operate under the regulatory frameworks of the participating states while maintaining the authority to regulate practice within their borders.
Despite its potential benefits, there are discussions regarding the oversight and enforcement of licensure standards. Some stakeholders express concern that the compact may dilute the established licensing processes at the state level, possibly risking varied quality and standards of care across states. Moreover, while the bill encourages cooperation between states, it does not override the distinct licensure requirements of each participating state, which means that any conflicts between existing state laws and the provisions of the Compact could lead to legal complexity. Overall, while proponents argue for enhanced access and streamlined operations, the legislative discourse suggests a careful balance must be struck to maintain regional standards.