HI SB344

Amends Section 448-3 of Hawaii Revised Statutes to clarify the scope of practice for dental assistants employed by licensed dentists.

Prohibits dental assistants and other unlicensed persons from performing services or procedures within the scope of dental hygiene practice as defined in Chapter 447, unless they are licensed dental hygienists.

Requires that any rules adopted by the Board of Dental Examiners regarding dental assistant duties shall not infringe upon, overlap with, or conflict with the duties and scope of practice for other licensed professionals.

Mandates that changes to the scope of practice for dental professionals or auxiliary personnel must be made through legislative statute rather than through administrative rule-making by the board alone.

Effective date: July 1, 2017.