The bill H.47 proposes the adoption of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact in Vermont, which aims to enhance the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene. This new subchapter, designated as Subchapter 7 of 26 V.S.A., allows licensed dentists and dental hygienists from participating states to practice in other states without needing additional licenses, thereby improving public access to dental services and addressing workforce shortages. The Compact establishes a streamlined process for obtaining a compact privilege and emphasizes the importance of state authority over licensure requirements, as well as the sharing of licensure and disciplinary information among states.

Additionally, the bill outlines the structure and responsibilities of a Commission that will oversee the Compact, including provisions for public participation in rulemaking, financial oversight, and dispute resolution among participating states. It includes specific provisions for active military members and their spouses, ensuring they are exempt from fees for compact privileges. The bill also clarifies that existing laws in participating states can be enforced as long as they do not conflict with the Compact, and it establishes that agreements made between the Commission and participating states will be binding. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.