WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 147

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 24 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE DENTIST AND DENTAL HYGIENIST COMPACT.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Kerri Harris and 8 co-sponsors

Delaware joins multistate Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, enabling interstate license reciprocity for qualified dental professionals to practice across member states without separate state licensing.

Introduced and Assigned to Health & Social Services Committee in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 147

Legislative bill overview

SB 147 amends Delaware's Title 24 of the Delaware Code to bring the state into the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, an interstate agreement allowing licensed dental professionals to practice across state lines under a coordinated licensure system. The bill enables dentists and dental hygienists meeting the compact's requirements to obtain expedited credentials in other member states without separate state licensing processes.

Why is this important

This compact addresses dental professional workforce shortages and improves patient access to care, particularly in underserved areas that can access providers from neighboring states. It reduces administrative burden and costs for dental professionals seeking multi-state licensure, potentially increasing geographic mobility of the workforce and reducing licensing delays.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory standards alignment: Concerns about whether expedited licensure through the compact adequately maintains Delaware's specific consumer protection standards if other member states have different disciplinary or continuing education requirements
  • Oversight and accountability: Questions about how Delaware's dental boards coordinate discipline and complaints for compacted professionals, particularly those primarily licensed in other states
  • Economic impact on local practitioners: Potential concern from established Delaware dental practices about increased out-of-state competition accessing the local market without traditional barriers

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

Sign in to ask a question.