The proposed bill seeks to adopt the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact in Nebraska, allowing licensed Dentists and Dental Hygienists from Participating States to practice in other Participating States without additional licensing requirements. The Compact aims to improve public access to dental services, address workforce shortages, and enhance public health through shared regulatory practices. It establishes a framework for sharing licensure and disciplinary information among states and mandates criminal background checks for those seeking licensure as Dentists or Dental Hygienists. The bill also introduces new requirements for Licensees applying for a Compact Privilege, including reporting their primary residence address and consenting to service of process at that address.

Additionally, the bill outlines the governance and operational framework of the Commission overseeing the Compact, detailing procedures for rulemaking, dispute resolution, and enforcement. It emphasizes the importance of confidentiality in handling sensitive information and establishes financial responsibilities for the Commission, including the collection of assessments and fees. Key insertions include the addition of "dental hygienist" to the list of professions subject to criminal background checks and the introduction of a compact privilege for practicing in Nebraska. The bill clarifies that if any part of the Compact is deemed unconstitutional in one state, it remains effective for others, and it is set to become operative on January 1, 2026, while repealing certain existing statutes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 38-131, 38-1101