Adopt the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact and change requirements for licensure and reciprocity under the Dentistry Practice Act

Nebraska's LB 148 adopts the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, allowing licensed dentists and dental hygienists from Nebraska to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. The bill creates a "Compact Privilege" that streamlines interstate practice by eliminating duplicate requirements, while requiring criminal background checks and harmonizing licensure rules under the Dentistry Practice Act. This directly affects licensed dental professionals seeking to work across state lines, particularly military members and their spouses. Key provisions include sharing disciplinary information between states and ensuring practitioners follow each state's scope of practice. The compact aims to improve workforce mobility and public access to dental services without altering individual state licensing standards.