Licensure Updates

Update from the AKDHA Legislative Committee:

Since our last newsletter in May, the committee has been meeting regularly.  As of September 1, we have also been receiving legislative advice from Yuri Morgan, the lobbyist AKDHA has collaborated with in the past. Our main focus has been on House Bill 197 that was drafted by the Board of Dental Examiners (BoDE) and introduced to the Alaska Legislature on April 16, 2025. The proposed changes outlined in HB197 would reshape the educational framework and standards for the profession of dental hygienists in Alaska.

The BoDE has not had a regular meeting since February 7, 2025. BoDE special meetings prevent written comments—both June and August meetings were minimally noticed (5 days) and only scheduled for one hour.  Written comments are required to be submitted at least two weeks prior to a meeting.  AKDHA submitted written comments in advance of the September 26th meeting and we have received some positive feedback on our suggestions that ensure Alaska dental hygiene statutes align with current CODA educational standards. This will maintain the minimum 2 years or equivalent educational requirement for Alaska even if CODA standards change in order to protect quality dental hygiene care for Alaskans. The AKDHA letter to the BoDE is available on our website here and we will provide an update at the October 25th AKDHA business meeting.

Upcoming CE and Business Meeting October 25th:

Navigating Licensure Compacts for Alaska’s Future

This session will provide an in-depth exploration of the two national licensure compacts currently under development for dental professionals: the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact (DDH Compact) and the American Association of Dental Boards (AADB) Interstate Licensure Compact. Presenters will outline the origins, structures, and goals of each compact, highlighting key differences and implications for clinical practice. The session will also guide participants in evaluating which compact may best serve Alaska’s dental workforce and patient care needs. Ample time will be provided for discussion and Q&A to support informed decision-making and advocacy.

October 25, 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Allied Health Science Building Rm 106 , 3500 Seawolf Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508, USA

For more information, and to register, visit www.alaskadha.org/events