BILL REQ. #:  H-5293.1 

READ FIRST TIME 02/04/08.   

     AN ACT Relating to the practice of dentistry; amending RCW 18.32.215; adding a new section to chapter 18.32 RCW; and providing an expiration date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

Sec. 1   RCW 18.32.215 and 2003 c 57 s 2 are each amended to read as follows:
     (1) An applicant holding a valid license and currently engaged in practice in another state may be granted a license without examination required by this chapter, on the payment of any required fees, if the applicant:
     (a) Is a graduate of a dental college, school, or dental department of an institution approved by the commission under RCW 18.32.040(1); or
     (b)(i) Has practiced in another state for at least five years; and
     (ii) Has completed a one-year postdoctoral residency approved by the commission.
     (2) The commission may also require the applicant to: (((1))) (a) File with the commission documentation certifying the applicant is licensed to practice in another state; and (((2))) (b) provide information as the commission deems necessary pertaining to the conditions and criteria of the Uniform Disciplinary Act, chapter 18.130 RCW, and to demonstrate to the commission a knowledge of Washington law pertaining to the practice of dentistry.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 18.32 RCW to read as follows:
     By November 15, 2009, the commission shall report to the governor and the legislature with recommendations for appropriate standards for issuing a license to a foreign-trained dentist. The recommendations shall consider the balance between maintaining assurances that Washington's dental professionals are well-qualified and planning for an adequate supply of dentists to meet the future needs of Washington's diverse urban and rural communities. In addition to considering the use of standards established by accreditation organizations, the recommendations shall consider other options to reduce barriers to licensure.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   This act expires July 1, 2010.