February 2, 2024
A1896/S702, sponsored by Senators Singer (Monmouth and Ocean) and Vitale (Middlesex), and Assemblypersons Conaway, Reynolds-Jackson, and Matsikoudis, Adopts Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
NJDA Statement: The NJDA supports the intention of this legislation, which is to improve licensure portability among dentists and dental hygienists. Dental workforce continues to be a problem for practices looking to maximize efficiency and increase patient encounters. This model legislation came about through a partnership with the Council of State Governments (CSG), the Department of Defense (DoD), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) to support the mobility of licensed dentists and dental hygienists through the development of a new interstate compact. This compact will create reciprocity among participant states and reduce the barriers to license portability. The identical model Compact legislation must be enacted by seven states before it becomes effective. A subsequent board comprised of the state that enact the legislation will convene to determine the specifics around the portability model. Nothing in the legislation takes away the rights of the licensing boards for discipline and oversight. Nothing in the legislation enables scope of practice changes, nor does it change a particular state’s continuing education requirements. To find out more about the Compact click here. https://ddhcompact.org/.
Read NJDA Testimony To The Assembly Health Committee Hearing – February 22, 2024