An Act to Amend the Scope of Practice for Expanded Function Dental Assistants
Summary
LD 806 amends Maine’s laws governing expanded function dental assistants (EFDAs) to clarify and broaden their scope of practice. The bill removes the need for an EFDA to obtain a separate dental radiographer license in order to expose and process radiographs, and instead places that work directly within the EFDA scope of practice. The bill also makes conforming changes to the statutes that reference licensed dental radiographers and EFDAs.
In practical terms, the measure is intended to reduce duplicative licensing requirements and eliminate an additional license fee for EFDAs who already complete the required radiologic technique and safety training. The bill is enacted as an emergency measure, meaning it takes effect immediately upon approval rather than waiting for the normal 90-day period after adjournment.
Impact
The bill amends Title 32 of the Maine Revised Statutes, including provisions in chapter 143 and the section defining authorized duties for dental auxiliaries. It specifically updates the scope of practice for expanded function dental assistants to include exposing and processing radiographs, while removing the need for separate licensure as a dental radiographer for that function. The change affects dentists, dental hygienists, EFDAs, and dental radiographers, and it may reduce administrative burden and licensing costs for dental practices and assistants.
Sentiment
The available text suggests generally favorable sentiment toward the bill, with the emergency preamble indicating legislative concern that the change should be implemented quickly to avoid unnecessary licensing fees and duplication. Because there are no committee transcripts or recorded votes provided, there is no evidence of formal opposition in the supplied materials. The bill’s framing emphasizes efficiency, cost reduction, and alignment of licensing requirements with actual practice.
Contention
The main policy issue is whether expanded function dental assistants should be allowed to expose and process radiographs under their existing scope of practice without also holding a separate dental radiographer license. Supporters appear to view the change as eliminating redundant regulation and fees, while any potential concern would likely center on training, oversight, and whether radiographic duties should remain tied to a distinct license. No specific opposing arguments or named stakeholders are included in the provided record.
An Act Requiring Expanded Function Dental Assistants Who Complete Educational Programs In Other States To Pass A Jurisprudence Assessment Before Practicing In The State.
An Act Requiring Expanded Function Dental Assistants Who Complete Educational Programs In Other States To Pass A Jurisprudence Assessment Before Practicing In The State.