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HB 880

AN ACT relating to the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Riley

Kentucky joins multi-state dental compact allowing out-of-state dentists and hygienists to practice with reciprocal licensing, increasing access but potentially reducing state regulatory control.

to Licensing, Occupations, & Administrative Regulations (H)
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Bill Summary · HB 880

Legislative bill overview

HB 880 would authorize Kentucky to enter into the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact, an agreement allowing licensed dentists and dental hygienists from participating states to practice across state lines without obtaining individual state licenses. The compact creates a centralized regulatory framework while maintaining individual state authority over practice standards and discipline.

Why is this important

This compact could increase access to dental care in underserved areas by allowing practitioners to work across state borders more easily, potentially addressing dentist shortages in rural Kentucky. It may also reduce licensing costs and administrative burdens for dental professionals seeking to practice in multiple states, though it requires Kentucky to recognize licenses from other compact member states.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory control concerns: Critics may worry that Kentucky surrenders some regulatory authority to a multi-state compact, potentially affecting how the state disciplines practitioners or sets practice standards
  • Consumer protection questions: Some stakeholders may question whether multi-state recognition adequately protects Kentucky patients if practitioners licensed elsewhere don't meet identical standards
  • Economic impact on existing practitioners: In-state dentists might face increased competition from out-of-state practitioners, potentially affecting Kentucky dental professional earnings and practice viability

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

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