Rhode IslandS28782026 Regular SessionSenate

AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENISTS .

Sponsored By: Hanna M. Gallo (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

More services from public health hygienists

Public-health dental hygienists can do any dental-hygiene procedure the state dental board allows under general supervision. They can do this in settings like homes of the homebound, schools, nursing homes, clinics, hospitals, community health centers, Head Start, and licensed mobile or portable programs. The hygienist must have a written agreement with a government agency or a licensed dentist before care. You get a consent form that says this is not a full dental exam and advises a dentist exam within 90 days. You also receive a written referral and an assessment of any further dental needs.

Public health hygienists can bill Medicaid directly

Public-health dental hygienists get paid directly by Medicaid or the state healthcare insurance program for care in public settings. Payments follow federal Medicaid rules. Hygienists can also bill other insurers and third-party payors. When a hygienist works for a local or state agency, or in a Health Department licensed mobile or portable prevention program, that agency or program can bill other third-party payors. This covers care in places like schools, nursing homes, clinics, and mobile programs.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Hanna M. Gallo
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

John P. Burke
Democratic • Senate
Walter S. Felag Jr.
Democratic • Senate
Matthew L. LaMountain
Democratic • Senate
David P. Tikoian
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 137 • No: 0

House vote • 6/4/2026

DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENISTS PASSAGE IN CONCURRENCE

Yes: 63 • No: 0

Senate vote • 5/27/2026

BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENISTS Passage

Yes: 37 • No: 0