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A 2341

Authorizes dental hygienists to provide such services in collaboration with a licensed dentist

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Karl Brabenec and 19 co-sponsors

Bill A 2341 allows dental hygienists to provide services in collaboration with dentists, improving access to care and efficiency, especially in underserved areas.

SUBSTITUTED BY S3157
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Bill Summary · A 2341

Summary of Bill A 2341

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 2341
  • Title: Authorizes dental hygienists to provide such services in collaboration with a licensed dentist
  • Status: Substituted by S3157
  • Introduced: January 16, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2341 aims to expand the scope of practice for dental hygienists by allowing them to provide certain dental services in collaboration with licensed dentists. This legislative change is intended to enhance access to dental care, particularly in underserved areas, and to improve the efficiency of dental practices.

Key Provisions

  • Collaboration with Dentists: The bill specifically authorizes dental hygienists to perform designated services under the supervision or in collaboration with a licensed dentist.
  • Scope of Services: While the bill does not explicitly list the services that dental hygienists may provide, it implies that these services will be defined in accordance with existing dental practice regulations.
  • Regulatory Framework: The bill may require the establishment of guidelines to ensure that the collaboration between dental hygienists and dentists meets professional standards and patient safety requirements.

Affected Parties

  • Dental Hygienists: This bill directly impacts dental hygienists by expanding their professional capabilities and allowing them to take on more responsibilities within dental practices.
  • Dentists: Licensed dentists will benefit from the ability to delegate certain tasks to dental hygienists, potentially increasing the efficiency of their practice.
  • Patients: The legislation is expected to improve access to dental care for patients, especially in areas where dental services are limited.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 16, 2025: Bill A 2341 was introduced and referred to the Higher Education committee.
  • May 28, 2025: The bill was reported and referred to the Ways and Means committee.
  • June 4, 2025: The bill was reported and referred to the Rules committee.
  • June 17, 2025: The bill was reported and ordered to third reading, but was subsequently substituted by S3157.

Related Bills

  • A 1959, A 5096, A 111, A 2553, A 335, A 3934, A 488: These prior-session bills may have addressed similar issues or proposed related changes in dental practice regulations.
  • S 3157: This is the companion bill that has substituted A 2341, indicating that the provisions of A 2341 may be incorporated into S 3157.

Conclusion

Bill A 2341 represents a significant step towards modernizing dental practice regulations by empowering dental hygienists to collaborate more effectively with dentists. This change is anticipated to enhance patient care and improve access to dental services across the state. As the bill has been substituted by S3157, stakeholders should monitor the progress of the companion bill for further developments.

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

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