Workforce Legislation Update

Apr 14, 2023
Three important dental workforce bills that reduce barriers to hygiene licensure in our state and increase licensure portability for dentists and hygienists, including WSDA’s ESHB 1466, have passed the Legislature.

Identifying and advocating for solutions to Washington’s serious dental hygiene shortage is one of WSDA’s top priorities. We are happy to share that three important dental workforce bills that reduce barriers to hygiene licensure in our state and increase licensure portability for dentists and hygienists, including WSDA’s ESHB 1466, have passed the Legislature. This successful advocacy on behalf of our members is possible because of your support — thank you for your membership!

Currently Credentialed Dental Auxiliaries (Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1466)

ESHB 1466 will make it easier for out-of-state dental hygienists, in good standing, to obtain a Washington license and start providing preventive care sooner by extending the initial limited license for hygienists from 18 months to 5 years. WSDA believes this extension will be beneficial to out-of-state hygienists wanting to practice in our state and believes there could be future opportunities to further expand this licensure period.

Concerning the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact (Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1576)

ESHB 1576 enacts the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact (Compact). The Compact enables licensed dentists and dental hygienists, in good standing, to practice in all states participating in the Compact, rather than having to obtain an individual license in every state in which they want to practice. Washington state is the first state to join the Compact! Now, six other states will need to pass legislation in order for the Compact to become operational.

Concerning Dental Hygienists (House Bill 1287)

HB 1287 removes the requirement for hygienists seeking initial licensure in our state to have worked 560 hours over the past 24 consecutive months. Removal of this unnecessary barrier will make it easier for out-of-state hygienists, in good standing, to get licensed in our state.

For further information on the above bills and to stay informed on issues affecting dentistry during the 2023 legislative session, please visit WSDA’s advocacy page at wsda.org/advocacy.

Questions? Please email info@wsda.org.