Strengthening Alaska's Dental Workforce
House Bill 197
HB 197 updates Alaska statutes related to dental hygiene licensure, Board governance, and dental practice ownership. The bill is designed to improve access to care, modernize regulatory processes, and ensure continuity of dental services across the state.
Why this matters to Alaskans
Improved Access to Care: Streamlining licensure helps bring more qualified dental Hygienists into Alaska’s workforce—especially critical in rural and underserved areas.
Workforce Flexibility: Modern standards reflect current education pathways while maintaining high-quality accreditation requirements.
Continuity of Patient Care: Clear ownership provisions help prevent disruption when practice ownership changes unexpectedly.
Stronger Oversight: Enhanced governance supports effective, efficient regulation that protects patients.
Key Provisions of HB 197
1. Dental Hygiene Licensure Modernization
• Removes the outdated requirement for a two-year academic program
• Maintains requirement for graduation from a
program accredited by the Commission on Dental
Accreditation (CODA)• Aligns Alaska with national standards while
preserving patient safety
2. Board of Dental Examiners Governance
• Establishes an Executive Administrator role
• This individual serves as the principal executive officer of the Board
• Ensures improved operational efficiency, consistency, and accountability
3. Dental Practice Ownership Clarification
• Allows a 24-month ownership transition period for estates or representatives of deceased dentists
• Provides flexibility to extend this timeframe when
necessary• Introduces enforcement measures:
– Civil fine of up to $1,000 per day for non-compliant ownership retention
– Ensures ownership transitions occur in good faith and protect patient care access
We appreciate your support!
HB 197 represents a practical step forward for Alaska’s
oral health system. We welcome the opportunity to answer
questions and serve as a resource.