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HB 2163

An Act amending the act of May 1, 1933 (P.L.216, No.76), known as The Dental Law, further providing for definitions, for general powers of the State Board of Dentistry, for penalties and for restricted faculty license.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jamie Barton and 12 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania updates dental licensing law to expand State Board powers, modernize definitions, adjust penalties, and revise faculty license restrictions for contemporary practice standards.

Act No. 13 of 2026
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Bill Summary · HB 2163

Legislative bill overview

HB 2163 amends Pennsylvania's Dental Law (1933) to update definitions, expand the State Board of Dentistry's regulatory powers, adjust penalty structures, and modify provisions for restricted faculty licenses. The bill modernizes dental licensing and regulatory frameworks that have remained largely unchanged for decades.

Why is this important

Dental licensing laws directly affect patient safety standards, professional conduct requirements, and access to dental education and services across Pennsylvania. Updates to board powers and penalties can influence how violations are enforced and what disciplinary actions are available, which affects both practitioners and the public they serve.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "general powers" expansion – The bill's language regarding expanded State Board authority is vague; stakeholders may disagree on whether this grants appropriate oversight or excessive regulatory reach
  • Penalty structure changes – Without specific penalty details in the summary, modifications could either strengthen enforcement (favorable to consumer advocates) or burden practitioners disproportionately (industry concern)
  • Restricted faculty license provisions – Changes to faculty licensing may affect dental schools' flexibility in hiring educators versus patient protection through standardized credentialing requirements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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