House Bill No. by Representative McMahen seeks to enact the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact into Louisiana law, which aims to facilitate cooperation among member states to expedite licensure and improve access to dental healthcare. The bill amends R.S. 44:4.1(B)(24) and introduces R.S. 37:799, detailing the compact's purpose, definitions, and the establishment of a commission to oversee its implementation. Key provisions include expedited licensure portability, maintenance of state regulatory authority, and information sharing to ensure public safety. The compact will become operational once five states have joined, and it includes provisions for military waivers, joint investigations, and disciplinary actions.

The bill also outlines the governance structure of the commission, requiring it to hold annual meetings and additional meetings as necessary, with a quorum defined as a majority of commissioners present. It mandates that the commission provide notice of all meetings and keep minutes available to member states. Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for the application and issuance of compact licenses for dentists and dental hygienists, emphasizing compliance with the laws of the member state where they practice. The compact's provisions will have the force of law in each member state, and amendments can only be made with unanimous consent from all member states.

Statutes affected:
HB543 Original: 44:1(B)(24)