The Florida legislature unanimously passed a bill to update the language in the Dental Practice Act, making it easier to receive a dental license, according to a March 6 report by The Center Square.
Senate Bill 938 updates the Dental Practice Act to indicate that Florida accepts the American Board of Dental Examiners exam, creating a more uniform process for dental students.
In addition, dental students taking the exam would be allowed to take different sections over multiple years in dental school, as opposed to just being able to take the exam during their final year.
The bill also allows for the Florida Board of Dentistry to consider personal emergencies and special hardships when individuals from out of state apply for a dental license, which is currently not permitted. The 1,200-hour requirement could also be waived by the board in certain circumstances.
If passed, the bill would create requirements for any individual applying for a dental license, including being over the age of 18, graduating from an accredited dental school or other recognized entity, passing the dental exam, and having no felony or misdemeanor convictions related to healthcare.
If signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the bill would go into effect July 1, the report said.