Bill > SB131

This bill amends Delaware state law to allow dental hygienists to administer local anesthesia under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, addressing a unique situation where Delaware is currently the only state that prohibits dental hygienists from performing this task. The bill adds definitions for "direct supervision" and "local anesthesia" to the Delaware Code, specifies that dental hygienists can administer local anesthesia only when a dentist is physically present in the dental office, and directs the State Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene to establish requirements and standards for dental hygienists to obtain a permit to administer local anesthesia by January 1, 2026. The legislation aims to expand dental care access and reduce the burden on dentists by allowing properly trained dental hygienists to provide a broader range of services, particularly in a state experiencing a shortage of dental care providers. The new provisions will take effect either on January 1, 2026, or when the Board publishes final implementing regulations in the Register of Regulations, whichever comes first, marking a significant update to dental practice regulations in Delaware.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142237