SB111

Senate Bill 111 proposes to enact the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact in Arkansas, joining a multi-state agreement to facilitate the interstate practice of these professions. The bill establishes a 'Compact Privilege' that allows dentists and dental hygienists licensed in a participating state to practice in other member states without obtaining separate, redundant licenses in each jurisdiction. Participating states must meet specific requirements, including implementing criminal background checks, participating in a shared data system for disciplinary information, and adhering to uniform accreditation standards for professional education. The Compact is designed to improve public access to dental services, address workforce shortages, and support the mobility of military personnel and their spouses. It clarifies that while the Compact eases licensing burdens, states retain their authority to regulate practice within their borders, including enforcing individual state scope of practice laws. Additionally, practitioners exercising a Compact Privilege are subject to the jurisprudence requirements of the state where they are practicing.