Bill
Bill > A979
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
The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry currently consists of two public members, nine members who have resided and practiced dentistry within this State for 10 years, and one member who is a dental hygienist. This bill adds one dental assistant to the membership of the board and clarifies the qualifications for both the assistant and hygienist members. Additionally, the bill adds language to state that the Governor is to consider, but not be obligated to follow, the recommendations of the New Jersey Dental Association nor the New Jersey Dental Assistants Association when appointing a dentist or the dental assistant to the board. The 4-year term for board members is retained under the bill. This bill also makes technical changes to the statutes. It repeals section 10 of P.L.2007, c.259 and amends R.S.45:6-1 to include those 2007 provisions regarding the addition of another dentist to the board's membership; removes an obsolete provision concerning membership succession; and updates certain organization and statutory references.
AI Summary
This bill amends existing New Jersey law to expand the membership of the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry, which oversees the practice of dentistry in the state. Currently, the board includes public members, dentists, and a dental hygienist; this bill adds one dental assistant to the board. The bill also clarifies the qualifications for both dental hygienist and dental assistant members, requiring them to have at least a baccalaureate degree and a minimum of 10 years of practice or employment in New Jersey. Importantly, while the Governor will consider recommendations from professional organizations like the New Jersey Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Assistants Association when appointing a dentist or dental assistant, the Governor is not obligated to follow these recommendations. The bill also makes technical changes, including repealing an outdated section of law and updating references to other statutes, while retaining the standard four-year term for board members.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions 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/A979 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A1000/979_I1.HTM |
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