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HB 14

DENTIST & DENTAL HYGIENIST COMPACT

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kathleen Cates and 4 co-sponsors

HB 14 establishes a multi-state dental compact enabling dentists and hygienists to practice across member states under unified licensing, reducing regulatory barriers and expanding workforce mobility.

action postponed indefinitely
#health&healthfacilities #licensure
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Bill Summary · HB 14

Legislative bill overview

HB 14 establishes a multi-state compact agreement allowing dentists and dental hygienists to practice across participating states under a unified licensure framework rather than obtaining separate licenses in each state. The compact creates an interstate regulatory body to set standards while allowing individual states to maintain some autonomy over their dental practice regulations.

Why is this important

This addresses workforce mobility and access to dental care, particularly in rural or underserved areas where practitioners can more easily relocate or provide services across state lines. It reduces regulatory burden and costs for dental professionals seeking to expand their practice footprint, potentially increasing care availability in regions facing provider shortages.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer protection variance: Different states have different safety standards and disciplinary processes; a multi-state framework may create gaps where disciplinary actions in one state don't automatically affect licensure in others
  • State regulatory authority: States ceding licensing control to an interstate compact may limit their ability to set localized standards or respond to state-specific health concerns
  • Professional competition concerns: Local dental associations may oppose increased out-of-state competition in their markets, particularly in less densely populated areas

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

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