Bill > A00098

This bill amends the New York education law to establish new regulations for dental hygienists administering block anesthesia. Specifically, the bill requires dental hygienists to obtain a new "dental hygiene block anesthesia certificate" in addition to their existing local infiltration anesthesia certificate. To administer block anesthesia, dental hygienists must now work under the personal supervision of a dentist, which means the supervising dentist must remain in the dental office, personally authorize and prescribe the anesthesia, and examine the patient before dismissal. The bill adds block anesthesia to the list of procedures dental hygienists can perform and establishes that the commissioner of education will create regulations for issuing the new certificate, including standards for training and education. The certificate will cost $25 and will be renewed triennially. The act will take effect one year after becoming law, giving dental hygienists and dental practices time to comply with the new requirements. This legislation aims to ensure patient safety by maintaining strict oversight of anesthesia administration by dental hygienists.

Budget and Finance, Education, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A98