NM HB44

New Mexico would join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, allowing dentists and dental hygienists licensed in participating states to practice in other member states through a "compact privilege" without obtaining additional state licenses

The compact creates the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact Commission, a joint government agency comprised of commissioners from each participating state, with authority to establish rules, maintain a data system for licensure information, and enforce compact provisions

Licensees must meet specific requirements to obtain compact privileges, including holding an unrestricted license in a participating state, passing national board examinations, graduating from accredited programs, and completing clinical assessments

Active military members and their spouses are exempt from commission fees for compact privileges, addressing workforce mobility for military families

The Dental Health Care Act is amended to require applicants for initial licensure or compact privileges to submit fingerprints for state and federal criminal background checks through the department of public safety