This bill amends the composition of the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry by adding one dental assistant to its membership, increasing the total number of members from nine to eleven. The board will now consist of two public members, nine members who have practiced dentistry in New Jersey for at least ten years, one dental hygienist with a baccalaureate degree and similar residency and practice requirements, and the newly added dental assistant, who must also hold a baccalaureate degree and meet the same residency and employment criteria. The bill clarifies that while the Governor should consider recommendations from the New Jersey Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Assistants Association when making appointments, he is not obligated to follow them.

Additionally, the bill repeals section 10 of P.L.2007, c.259, which is no longer relevant, and makes technical updates to the existing statutes, including the removal of obsolete provisions regarding membership succession. The four-year term for board members remains unchanged. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the representation of dental professionals on the board and ensure that the qualifications for its members are clearly defined.