SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1721

As Reported By Senate Committee On:

Health & Long-Term Care, March 27, 2003

Title: An act relating to the practice of dentistry by students in accredited state dental schools.

Brief Description: Concerning dentistry.

Sponsors: House Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Representatives Moeller, Boldt, Fromhold and Wallace).

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 3/27/03 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Majority Report: Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Deccio, Chair; Winsley, Vice Chair; Franklin, Keiser, Parlette and Thibaudeau.

Staff: Tanya Karwaki (786-7447)

Background: The curriculum at dental schools lasts for four years. The program includes classroom instruction and laboratory work in the sciences, as well as supervised treatment of patients during the last two years.

Currently, students in Washington State dental schools or colleges that are approved by the Dental Quality Assurance Commission may practice dentistry when acting under the direction and supervision of Washington State-licensed dental school faculty.

Summary of Bill: Students in accredited dental schools or colleges approved by the Dental Quality Assurance Commission may practice dentistry when acting under the direction and supervision of Washington State-licensed dental school faculty.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For: This bill will help increase access to dental care for residents in the border areas of the state.

Testimony Against: None.

Testified: Representative Moeller, prime sponsor; Linda Hull, Washington State Dental Association (pro).