Stanley Bill Enacting Dental Compact Signed Into Law

OKLAHOMA CITY— Senate Bill 540 by Senator Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, was signed into law Wednesday, enacting the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact in Oklahoma. The compact is a multi-state agreement designed to improve access to dental care by streamlining licensure portability for dental professionals.

Stanley, who chairs the Senate Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, carried the bill at the request of the Department of War, and noted the benefits of entering the compact for military spouses and families.

“This law is a meaningful step for military spouses working in dentistry and dental hygiene, who often see their careers and licensing disrupted by frequent relocations,” Stanley said. “By joining the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, we are removing unnecessary licensing barriers so these qualified professionals can continue practicing across state lines, instead of starting over after each move.”

“Entering this compact will also help address Oklahoma’s shortage of dental hygienists by bringing experienced providers into our communities and keeping them in the workforce,” Stanley added.

Under the provisions outlined in SB 540, the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry will establish uniform licensure standards in alignment with the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact Commission, including education, examinations, background checks and continuing professional development.

Stanley expressed appreciation to Representative Erick Harris, R-Edmond, who carried the measure in the House, helping to advance the measure and positioning Oklahoma to become the 13^th state to join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.

The new law will take effect on Nov. 1.

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For more information, contact: communications@oksenate.gov.