The proposed bill establishes the "Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact," which facilitates the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene by allowing licensed professionals from participating states to practice in other states without duplicative licensing requirements. This compact aims to improve public access to dental services, address workforce shortages, and enhance public health through shared regulatory authority. Key provisions include the requirement for criminal history background checks for license applicants, the establishment of a joint commission to oversee licensure and regulation, and the creation of a coordinated database for tracking licensure and adverse actions.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the commission, including rulemaking authority, enforcement mechanisms, and procedures for public hearings and dispute resolution. It mandates that participating states adhere to the compact's model and allows for emergency rule adoption. Significant new provisions include the requirement for applicants to submit fingerprints for background checks, with confidentiality protections for criminal history records. The bill also introduces continuing education requirements for dental professionals and grants the board authority to create a formulary for medications that dental therapists and hygienists may prescribe or dispense.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 61-5A-10