Bill > AB1307

This bill establishes a new Licensed Dentists from Mexico Pilot Program designed to address dental professional shortages in California, particularly in areas with high Latino populations and limited access to dental care. The program will allow up to 30 licensed Mexican dentists to practice for three years in federally qualified health centers located in health professional shortage areas. To participate, dentists must meet specific criteria, including graduation from an accredited Mexican dental program, passing competency exams, demonstrating English language proficiency, and completing required training courses. The program will be administered by representatives from Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas, who will recruit, vet, and support applicants. Participants can only be employed by federally qualified health centers that meet certain accreditation and quality standards. The program requires a comprehensive evaluation after one year to assess the quality of care, cultural competency, and impact on dental service accessibility. All program costs will be fully funded by philanthropic foundations and private donors, with employing health centers responsible for specific fees and expenses associated with the licensing process.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1307