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Bill Summary · HB 322

Summary of House Bill 322: Relating to Voter Registration

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 322
- Title: Relating to Voter Registration
- Status: Reported from JHA (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 746), recommending referral to FIN.
- Introduced: February 06, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Elections, Identification Cards, Motor Vehicle Permits and Licenses

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 322 aims to amend Chapter 11 of Title 43 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated. The primary purpose of this bill is to revise the provisions regarding the issuance of dental licenses by the Georgia Board of Dentistry specifically for the purpose of teaching or instructing in accredited dental schools or academic medical centers within the state.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes, including:

  1. Issuance of Teacher's or Instructor's License:

    • The Georgia Board of Dentistry may issue a teacher's or instructor's license to dentists who have graduated from accredited dental programs without requiring an examination.
    • This license is strictly for teaching or instructing in accredited dental colleges or training clinics.

  2. Eligibility Requirements:

    • Applicants must have graduated from a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (ADA).
    • Additional requirements for those with degrees from non-accredited schools include:
      • Completion of specific advanced education programs.
      • Certification of competency from the dean of the dental school.

  3. Background Checks:

    • All applicants must consent to a criminal background check, which includes providing fingerprints and covering associated fees.

  4. Temporary Licenses:

    • The Board may issue temporary licenses for dentists practicing public health dentistry in state or local health departments or correctional institutions.

  5. Regulatory Authority:

    • The Board has the authority to establish rules regarding documentation and qualifications for licensure.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • This bill primarily impacts dental professionals seeking to teach in accredited institutions in Georgia.
    • It also affects the Georgia Board of Dentistry in terms of regulatory processes and oversight.

  • Potential Benefits:

    • By streamlining the licensing process for educators, the bill aims to enhance the quality of dental education in Georgia.
    • It may attract qualified dental professionals from other states, thereby enriching the educational landscape.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • The bill was introduced on February 6, 2025, and has undergone various readings and committee reviews.
    • It was passed by the House and Senate and signed by the Governor on May 9, 2025.
    • The effective date of the bill is July 1, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 322 represents a significant step towards improving dental education in Georgia by facilitating the licensing of qualified dental educators. The bill's provisions aim to ensure that teaching standards are maintained while also making the process more accessible for qualified professionals.

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

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