Bill > HB191

This bill, titled the "Dental Health Act Changes & Therapists," aims to expand access to dental care by introducing and regulating the practice of "dental therapists," who are licensed professionals with advanced training beyond dental hygienists, capable of performing a wider range of procedures under varying levels of dentist supervision. Key provisions include defining dental therapists and their scope of practice, establishing licensure requirements for them, and outlining specific environments where they can practice, such as in underserved areas or federally qualified health centers. The bill also amends existing laws to incorporate dental therapists into various definitions and regulations, including those related to the Board of Dental Health Care's duties, licensing procedures, disciplinary actions, and fee structures, and mandates a report on the outcomes of dental therapy practice after five years.