Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact

HB 45 establishes Maryland's participation in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, allowing licensed dentists and dental hygienists from participating states to practice in Maryland without obtaining a full new license. The bill creates a "compact privilege" that streamlines interstate practice by eliminating duplicate licensing requirements, directly benefiting dental professionals seeking to work across state lines and improving access to care for patients in participating states. It requires practitioners to follow the scope of practice rules of the state where they are practicing and mandates that states share disciplinary information to protect public safety. A Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact Commission will oversee the program and ensure participating states maintain regulatory authority over dental practice within their borders.