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SB 282

Dental hygienist licensure; dentists eligible to practice in a foreign country or jurisdiction.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lashrecse Aird and 6 co-sponsors

SB 282 expands dental hygienist licensure eligibility and allows dentists practicing abroad to obtain Virginia licenses, affecting professional mobility and regulatory standards.

Reported from Health and Human Services with amendment(s)
0
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Bill Summary · SB 282

Legislative bill overview

SB 282 modifies Virginia's dental hygienist licensure requirements and creates a pathway for dentists who practice in foreign countries or jurisdictions to maintain or obtain licensure in Virginia. The bill was passed by the Senate and has undergone amendment in the Health and Human Services Committee.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses workforce mobility and international practice recognition in healthcare, potentially affecting dental professionals' ability to work across state and national borders. It may impact Virginia's dental workforce availability and the regulation of practitioners with foreign experience.

Potential points of contention

  • Foreign credential recognition standards: Unclear what vetting process ensures foreign-trained dentists meet Virginia's safety and competency standards, or whether reciprocal agreements exist with other countries
  • Hygienist scope of practice overlap: Changes to hygienist licensure could affect the delineation between hygienist and dentist roles, potentially creating economic competition or patient care coordination issues
  • Enforcement and accountability: Monitoring compliance and maintaining disciplinary standards for practitioners operating internationally may be administratively challenging for Virginia regulators

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

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