House Bill No. by Representative McMahen seeks to enact the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact into Louisiana law, amending R.S. 44:4.1(B)(24) and establishing R.S. 37:799. The compact is designed to expedite licensure and improve access to dental healthcare by enabling member states to collaborate through shared licensure boards. It includes provisions for definitions, the creation of a commission to oversee the compact, and outlines the duties and powers of both member states and the commission. Key features include expedited licensure portability, maintenance of state sovereignty in regulating dental practices, military waivers, and joint investigations.

The bill also introduces amendments to existing laws governing dental commission operations, such as establishing an annual meeting for electing commission officers and defining a quorum for business. Member states are required to submit dental board actions to a clearinghouse and notify the commission of any adverse actions. The application process for dentists and dental hygienists seeking compact license privileges is detailed, including the necessity for a letter of eligibility from their home state dental board. The bill emphasizes the commission's role in overseeing the compact, including rulemaking, compliance enforcement, and dispute resolution, while allowing for state withdrawal from the compact and outlining the implications of such actions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the governance and operational efficiency of the dental commission while ensuring accountability among member states.

Statutes affected:
HB543 Original: 44:1(B)(24)
HB543 Engrossed: 44:1(B)(24)
HB543 Reengrossed: 44:1(B)(24)
HB543 Enrolled: 44:1(B)(24)
HB543 Act 312: 44:1(B)(24)