HI HB696

Renames the "Board of Dental Examiners" to the "Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene" to better reflect its regulatory scope over both dentistry and dental hygiene professions.

Increases board membership from 12 to 15 members effective July 1, 2018, expanding dental hygienist representation from 2 to 5 members, with 3 from Oahu and 2 from neighbor islands.

Clarifies that board rules for dental assistants cannot infringe upon, overlap with, or conflict with the scope of practice for licensed professionals, particularly dental hygienists.

Prohibits employers from directing dental assistants or other unlicensed persons to perform services or procedures within the scope of practice of dental hygiene unless they are licensed dental hygienists.

Takes effect July 1, 2050, except the board composition changes take effect July 1, 2018.