The bill amends RCW 18.29.190 to streamline the process for dental hygienists seeking an initial limited license in Washington State. It allows applicants who hold a valid license in another state or Canadian province, and who meet specific educational and examination requirements, to obtain this license without the need for an examination. Notably, the bill removes the requirement for applicants to be currently engaged in active practice, which was previously defined as having completed 560 hours of practice in the last 24 months. Additionally, the bill clarifies the documentation needed for applicants and updates the terminology used in the licensing process.

Furthermore, the bill specifies the procedures that individuals with an initial limited license can perform, such as oral inspections, patient education, and taking radiographs, while also outlining the limitations on certain procedures like administering local anesthesia and restorative work. It introduces provisions for temporary endorsements that allow licensed individuals from other jurisdictions to perform specific procedures if they can demonstrate equivalent standards. The term of the initial limited license is set at 18 months, with renewal contingent upon demonstrating competency in various dental hygiene practices.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.29.190
Bill as Passed Legislature: 18.29.190
Session Law: 18.29.190