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H 455

An Act relative to the dental licensure compact in Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ted Philips

Massachusetts joins the Dental Licensure Compact, allowing dentists to practice across multiple member states under one license instead of obtaining separate state licenses.

Accompanied a study order, see H5080
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Bill Summary · H 455

Legislative bill overview

H 455 establishes Massachusetts's participation in the Dental Licensure Compact, an interstate agreement that allows licensed dentists to practice in multiple member states without obtaining separate licenses in each state. The bill streamlines the credentialing process by allowing dentists to maintain a single license while practicing across participating jurisdictions through a coordinated system.

Why is this important

The compact addresses dentist shortages in underserved areas by reducing licensing barriers and administrative costs, potentially improving access to dental care across state lines. For practitioners, it reduces the time and expense of obtaining multiple state licenses, though it may also increase competition in some markets and affect how states regulate their dental professions.

Potential points of contention

  • Professional regulation standards: Questions about whether the compact's uniform standards adequately protect consumers or if they may dilute state-specific protections and disciplinary procedures
  • State autonomy: Concerns that participating in the compact limits Massachusetts's ability to independently set dental licensing requirements and regulate practitioners
  • Consumer protection and dispute resolution: Uncertainty about how patient complaints and disciplinary actions are handled when dentists are licensed across multiple states under the compact framework

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

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