This bill amends various sections of Nebraska's statutes to adopt the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which facilitates the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene. It allows licensed Dentists and Dental Hygienists from Participating States to practice in other Participating States without additional licensing requirements, while ensuring that states maintain regulatory authority. Key provisions include the implementation of criminal background checks for license applicants, the establishment of a Compact Privilege for qualified licensees, and criteria for states to join the Compact, such as accepting national board examinations and maintaining a data system for licensee information.

Additionally, the bill modifies the licensure process by introducing a new compact privilege, replacing the previous practical examination with a standardized national examination, and reducing the required active practice period for applicants seeking licensure from three years to one year. It also outlines the governance structure for a Commission overseeing the Compact, detailing its powers, operational procedures, and financial management. The bill includes provisions for qualified immunity for Commission members, establishes a timeline for compliance with criminal background checks, and sets an operative date for certain sections to begin on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 38-1117, 38-1120
Final Reading: 38-131, 38-1101, 38-1117, 38-1120
Slip Law: 38-131, 38-1101, 38-1117, 38-1120