The bill establishes the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact in Texas, allowing licensed Dentists and Dental Hygienists from Participating States to practice in other Participating States without additional licensing requirements. This initiative aims to enhance public access to dental services, address workforce shortages, and maintain public health and safety through a regulated framework. To join the Compact, states must align their legislation with the Model Compact, participate in a data system, and implement regulatory measures such as criminal background checks and continuing education for license renewal. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the Commission overseeing the Compact, including the issuance of Compact Privileges and the conditions under which these privileges may be lost or regained.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify the enforcement of the Compact, ensuring that it remains effective even if deemed unconstitutional in any Participating State. It designates the board as the administrator of the Compact and grants it authority to adopt necessary rules for implementation. The bill emphasizes transparency by requiring public access to Commission meetings and stipulating that any amendments to the Compact must be enacted into law by all Participating States. The provisions of this Act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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