Contact: Rep. Kathy Bernier
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Assembly Bill 146 Receives Unanimous Approval in the State Assembly
Madison…Today in legislative session the state Assembly passed Assembly Bill 146 (AB 146), authored by Rep. Kathy Bernier (R-Lake Hallie), allowing dental hygienists to practice in additional settings without the authorization and supervision of a licensed dentist.
The bill passed today expands dental hygiene services hygienists can perform outside the setting of a dental office, specifically in the area of long-term care to skilled nursing facilities and community based residential facilities (CBRFs). Other locations specified in the bill include hospitals, medical clinics, nursing homes, adult day care centers, prisons, and non-profit dental programs.
“This is a common-sense proposal that will enhance the dental health of Wisconsinites, especially targeted to help those who may have not had simple preventative care measures for years,” said Rep. Bernier. “I’m proud that so many health organizations have supported this legislation, including the Wisconsin Dental Association, Wisconsin Hospital Association, Children’s Health Alliance of Wisconsin, American Academy of Pediatrics and many others.”
Assembly Bill 146 passed the Assembly on a unanimous voice-vote and now moves on to the State Senate. The bill has already received wide bi-partisan support in the legislature and is expected to move on to the Governor’s desk for final approval later this session.
