The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes by establishing the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which allows licensed dentists and dental hygienists from participating states to practice in other Compact states without obtaining separate licenses. This new framework replaces the previous focus on the On-Farm Irrigation Efficiency Fund, deleting references to that initiative and inserting comprehensive guidelines for the Compact's establishment and operation. Key provisions include criteria for obtaining Compact privileges, responsibilities of participating states, and a regulatory framework for licensees, thereby shifting the focus from irrigation efficiency to dental licensure across state lines.
Additionally, the bill introduces various updates to the governance and operational procedures of the Commission overseeing the Compact. It mandates public notice for proposed rulemaking, establishes requirements for public hearings, and outlines the process for emergency rule adoption. The bill also clarifies the enforcement responsibilities of participating states and the legal recourse available against the Commission, ensuring compliance and accountability. Furthermore, it emphasizes the relationship between the Compact and existing state laws, asserting that the Compact supersedes conflicting state laws while maintaining the severability of its provisions. Overall, these updates aim to enhance transparency, operational efficiency, and the collaborative efforts of the Commission while protecting public interests.