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HD 1446

An Act establishing the dentist and dental hygienist compact

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Natalie Higgins and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts joins multistate compact allowing dentists and hygienists to practice across member states without separate licenses, expanding dental workforce mobility and potentially improving rural access.

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Bill Summary · HD 1446

Legislative bill overview

HD 1446 would establish the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, a multistate agreement allowing dental professionals licensed in one compact member state to practice in other member states without obtaining separate licenses. This interstate compact aims to streamline licensure procedures and increase access to dental services across participating states.

Why is this important

Dental professional shortages, particularly in rural and underserved areas, create significant public health gaps. The compact could reduce licensing barriers and administrative costs, potentially expanding dental care availability. It also addresses workforce mobility issues for dental professionals seeking to practice across state lines.

Potential points of contention

  • Standardization concerns: Different states have varying educational requirements and licensing standards; a compact may require Massachusetts to accept professionals trained to lower standards in other states
  • Consumer protection questions: Centralized disciplinary mechanisms through a compact could be less stringent than state-by-state oversight, potentially affecting patient safety protections
  • Economic impacts on local dentists: Increased out-of-state competition could affect Massachusetts dental practitioners' patient bases and income, particularly in less desirable markets
  • Implementation costs: State administrative infrastructure needed to participate in the compact system and interstate data sharing

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

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