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Bill

SB 765

Dentists and dental hygienists; enacting the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygienist Compact. Effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Todd Gollihare

Oklahoma joins multi-state compact allowing dentists and hygienists to practice across state lines with reciprocal licensing, improving workforce mobility and dental care access.

Second Reading referred to Health and Human Services
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Bill Summary · SB 765

Legislative bill overview

SB 765 enacts the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygienist Compact in Oklahoma, which is a multi-state agreement that allows licensed dentists and dental hygienists to practice across state lines under a coordinated regulatory framework. The compact establishes reciprocal licensure recognition between participating states while maintaining individual state oversight and standards.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses workforce mobility and access to dental care, particularly in rural or underserved areas where practitioners could serve multiple states. It reduces licensing barriers that currently require separate applications and fees in each state, potentially improving healthcare access and reducing administrative costs for practitioners.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory consistency concerns: States maintain different licensure standards and continuing education requirements; the compact's effectiveness depends on how well these differences are harmonized and whether public safety is adequately protected
  • Consumer protection questions: Out-of-state practitioners may be less familiar with local regulations and patient oversight mechanisms, raising concerns about accountability and complaint resolution procedures
  • Economic impact on local practitioners: Increased out-of-state competition could affect income and market dynamics for Oklahoma dentists and hygienists, particularly in less densely populated regions

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

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