The bill amends the licensure requirements for dental hygienists in Minnesota by updating the criteria for applicants. It specifies that an applicant may apply for licensure if they are of good moral character and have either completed a dental hygiene education program accredited by a recognized agency or have completed a minimum of four years of postsecondary dental education, receiving a dental school diploma comparable to a D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree from a foreign dental college. The applicant must also submit the required application and fee, along with the appropriate diploma or certificate.

Additionally, the bill outlines the examination requirements for licensure, stating that applicants must pass a clinical competency examination and a separate examination on Minnesota's dental laws and board rules. It establishes that applicants who fail the clinical examination twice must obtain further education and training before being eligible to retake it. The bill also allows for a nonrefundable fee to be charged for each application. Overall, these changes aim to streamline the licensure process and ensure that dental hygienists meet the necessary qualifications to practice in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 150A.06