summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill would adopt the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact in New Jersey, which is an interstate compact that will authorize dentists and dental hygienists licensed in a compact state to practice in any other compact state without being individually licensed in that other state. Licensees in a compact state seeking to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in another compact state will be required to apply for a compact privilege to practice in the other state, including paying any applicable fees. States participating in the compact are required to meet certain requirements related to the licensure of dentists and dental hygienists, require criminal background checks of licensees and applicants for licensure, and participate in a data system that is used to track adverse actions taken against licensees in states participating in the compact. An adverse action against a licensee in a compact state will suspend the licensee's authorization to practice in all other compact states. Licensees are subject to the practice laws and jurisdiction of the state in which the licensee is practicing. The compact will be overseen by a commission comprising one commissioner appointed from each member state. An executive board made up of the chair, vice chair, secretary, and treasurer of the commission, as well as up to three additional commissioners, will be charged with the day-to-day administration of the compact. The bill sets forth specific requirements concerning the operations and authorities of the commission and the executive board, as well as procedures for enforcing compliance with the compact. The compact takes effect when it is adopted in at least seven states. As of May 2023, Iowa and Washington have enacted legislation adopting the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
AI Summary
This bill adopts the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, an interstate agreement that allows licensed dentists and dental hygienists in participating states to practice in other member states without needing a separate license in each new state, provided they obtain a "compact privilege" and pay any associated fees. Participating states must meet specific licensing standards, conduct criminal background checks on professionals, and share information about disciplinary actions through a central data system, where any adverse action against a licensee in one compact state will affect their ability to practice in all other compact states. The compact establishes a commission, composed of representatives from each member state, to oversee its operations, with an executive board handling day-to-day administration, and it will become effective once enacted by at least seven states.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/S806 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S1000/806_I1.HTM |
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