Modifies provisions relating to the scope of practice of dental hygienists

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Lucas and 1 co-sponsor

HB 2137 would modify Missouri dental hygienists’ scope of practice, including duties, supervision, and regulatory rules, affecting access and practice operations.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)

#dentists #professionalregistrationandlicensing

Summary of HB 2137 (Missouri, 2026)

Purpose and intent

HB 2137 seeks to modify provisions related to the scope of practice of dental hygienists in Missouri. The bill appears to adjust what activities dental hygienists may perform, the conditions under which they may practice, and the regulatory framework governing their scope of practice. The goal is to clarify or expand (or potentially restrict) the duties allowed for dental hygienists within the professional dental care team.

Key provisions and changes (as indicated by the bill’s title and general scope)

Scope of practice adjustments for dental hygienists: The bill changes statutory language governing what dental hygienists may perform in patient care. This could include clarifications of preventive services, patient counseling, dental assessments, charting, or application of care such as sealants or fluoride. The exact activities added or modified would be specified in the bill’s text.

Supervision and collaboration requirements: Possible modifications to how dental hygienists collaborate with licensed dentists, the level of supervision required (general vs. direct supervision), and the processes for delegation of duties.

Licensure and regulatory framework: Potential tweaks to licensure standards, continuing education requirements, or regulatory oversight by the Missouri Board of Dental Examiners (or equivalent authority).

Patient safety and quality of care: Provisions likely intended to ensure patient safety, record-keeping, informed consent, and appropriate scope boundaries to prevent unsafe or unauthorized practice.

Transition provisions: If the bill expands or narrows scope, there may be dates or phase-in periods to implement changes, along with any grandfathering or sunset clauses.

Who would be affected

Dental hygienists: Primary impact on the duties they may legally perform, supervision requirements, and practice settings.

Dentists and dental practices: Operational adjustments may be needed to align with the revised scope, delegation practices, and supervision arrangements.

Patients/consumers: Potential changes in access to certain preventive dental services, scheduling options, and the overall patient experience depending on how the scope is adjusted.

Regulatory body: If amended, oversight or enforcement procedures by the Missouri Board of Dental Examiners or similar agency could be affected.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Referral history: The bill was referred to Emerging Issues (H) on May 15, 2026, indicating it is being considered for broader discussion and potential amendments within the House.

Floor readings: The bill had its second reading on January 8, 2026, and its first reading on January 7, 2026, signaling early-stage consideration.

Pre-filing: The bill was prefiled on December 3, 2025, suggesting initial drafting and introduction occurred prior to the 2026 session.

Sponsorship: Co-sponsors include Brad Pollitt and Bill Lucas, indicating bipartisan input and support within the chamber.

Notes

The summary reflects the bill’s stated objective to modify the scope of practice for dental hygienists. The exact substantive changes (which specific duties are added, removed, or restricted; supervision levels; and implementation timelines) require review of the full bill text and any fiscal or regulatory impact analyses accompanying it.

For stakeholders, key questions include how the changes affect access to care, the supervisory model in dental practices, and any costs associated with compliance or training.