Michigan Considers Interstate Compact to Streamline Dental Licensing
Lansing, MI – Michigan lawmakers are currently evaluating legislation that aims to simplify the process for dentists and dental hygienists licensed in other states to practice in Michigan. The proposed legislation, spearheaded by State Representatives Parker Fairbairn, David Preston, and seven other co-sponsors, would enable Michigan to join the Council of State Governments Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
The bill has already passed the House and is now under review by the Senate Government Operations Committee.
How the Compact Would Operate
Currently, out-of-state dental professionals seeking to practice in Michigan must go through the full licensing process. The compact would introduce a “compact privilege,” allowing these professionals to practice in Michigan while maintaining their primary license in another state. This streamlined approach aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for qualified professionals.
Bill Sullivan, Vice President of Professional Relations at the Michigan Dental Association, emphasized the benefits of the compact, stating it would facilitate the relocation of qualified professionals to Michigan. “This is to help those who want to move to Michigan without the bureaucratic process to get a license when they already have one,” Sullivan said.
Despite the streamlined process, professionals utilizing the compact privilege would still be required to adhere to Michigan’s dental codes, safety regulations, and complete the national dental exam.
Addressing Workforce Shortages
Advocates for the compact highlight its potential to address healthcare workforce shortages, particularly in underserved areas of Michigan. Nealie Andrews, Legislative Director at Acuitas, noted the Michigan Dental Hygienists Association has been a key driver of the agreement. “This compact will help serve communities in Northern Michigan and in the Upper Peninsula who have little to no access to dental care,” Andrews explained.
Stakeholders like Delta Dental and the Michigan Oral Health Council are similarly supporting the legislation, seeking a more efficient process to meet staffing needs within their organizations.
Concerns Regarding Patient Safety
The legislation has faced some opposition, with concerns raised about the absence of hands-on clinical examinations in Michigan for out-of-state dentists. Mark Johnston, a dentist with over 40 years of experience and former president of the Michigan Dental Association, argued that a third-party clinical exam is crucial for ensuring patient safety, especially for newly graduated dentists. “This is about patient safety,” Johnston said. “By testing new dentists, we can confidently confirm they are ready to treat patients.”
Potential for Additional Testing
Discussions are underway regarding a separate compact, the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact, which would mandate a uniform licensing exam assessing both psychomotor and cognitive dental skills for all dentists seeking to practice in the state. Emily Cardone, a public relations executive, indicated that lawmakers sponsoring the bill are actively engaging with stakeholders to explore this possibility.
Representative Parker Fairbairn
Representative Parker Fairbairn, a Republican representing the 107th District, is a key sponsor of the legislation. He was first elected to the state House of Representatives in November 2024, representing Charlevoix and Emmet counties, and portions of Cheboygan, Chippewa, and Mackinac counties. Learn more about Representative Fairbairn.