AN ACT relating to public health hygienists.

HB 449 allows dental hygienists employed by in-state colleges or universities with accredited dental programs to practice as public health hygienists. This change permits them to provide dental hygiene services in public health settings under approved protocols, specifically within programs run by Kentucky's Department for Public Health, accredited university dental schools, or local health boards. The bill expands their scope to include screenings and preventive care without direct dentist supervision in these designated settings. It does not alter general dental hygiene practice rules but creates a new pathway for hygienists working in public health or academic programs.