HI SB344

Amends HRS Section 448-3(b) to clarify that dental assistants perform duties under the supervision, direction, and responsibility of a licensed dentist.

Requires that board of dental examiners rules governing dental assistant duties shall not infringe upon, overlap with, or conflict with the duties and scope of practice for other licensed professionals.

Prohibits any person from employing, directing, or ordering a dental assistant or other person to perform services or procedures within the scope of dental hygiene practice unless the person is a licensed dental hygienist.

Establishes that any expansion of dental assistant duties or scope of practice must be determined legislatively rather than through administrative rule changes by the board of dental examiners.

Effective date is July 1, 2017.