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Bill

SB 538

Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Hershey and 1 co-sponsor

Maryland joins interstate compact allowing dentists and hygienists to practice across member states with single license, reducing barriers but requiring coordination with other states' regulatory standards.

Hearing 2/11 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 538

Legislative bill overview

SB 538 establishes Maryland's participation in an interstate compact that streamlines licensure for dentists and dental hygienists across multiple states. The compact creates reciprocal recognition of licenses, allowing licensed dental professionals to practice in member states without obtaining separate state licenses, though states retain regulatory authority over practice standards.

Why is this important

This addresses workforce shortages in dental care by reducing licensing barriers and administrative costs for professionals, potentially improving access to dental services in underserved areas. The compact particularly benefits border regions and allows states to share resources for license verification and disciplinary coordination, though it requires balancing professional mobility with state-level consumer protections.

Potential points of contention

  • State regulatory autonomy: Critics may argue the compact limits Maryland's independent control over dental practice standards and consumer protections, requiring coordination with other states' varying requirements
  • Consumer protection concerns: Questions about whether uniform recognition adequately protects patients if disciplinary standards differ across member states or if background/competency vetting becomes less rigorous
  • Economic impact on in-state professionals: Local dental practitioners may worry about increased competition from out-of-state licensees or potential downward pressure on licensing standards to accommodate reciprocity

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

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