Bill > LB83

This bill adopts the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, a comprehensive interstate agreement designed to facilitate dental professionals' mobility across participating states while maintaining public health and safety standards. The compact creates a streamlined pathway for dentists and dental hygienists to obtain a "compact privilege" that allows them to practice in states other than their primary licensing state, without requiring multiple licensing processes. Key provisions include establishing a coordinated data system for tracking licensure and disciplinary information, setting uniform requirements for obtaining a compact privilege (such as graduating from an accredited program and passing national examinations), and creating a joint commission to oversee the compact's implementation. The bill also amends existing Nebraska statutes to include dental hygienists in criminal background check requirements and explicitly allows professionals with a compact privilege to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in Nebraska. Notably, the compact aims to address workforce shortages, reduce administrative burdens for healthcare professionals, and enhance public access to dental services, with special provisions to support military members and their spouses. The compact will become operative on January 1, 2026, and will take effect once seven states have enacted substantially similar legislation.

Health and Social Services

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58882