Kentucky 2026 Regular Session Status: Enacted Bipartisan · 1 D · 1 R cosponsors

HB 776 — AN ACT relating to health care services and declaring an emergency.

Last action — signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 131)

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  1. ✓
    Introduced
  2. ✓
    In Committee
  3. ✓
    Passed House
  4. ✓
    Passed Senate
  5. ✓
    To Executive
  6. 6
    Enacted

This bill has been enacted into law. Introduced February 27, 2026. Enacted.

Signed by Governor Andy Beshear (Democratic) on April 13, 2026.

Prognosis

Likely to advance 90% · high confidence

Where this bill stands today.

Odds of enactment

High

How often bills like it became law.

  • Enacted

    Current position in the legislative process.

  • 2 sponsors

    2 primary, 0 co-sponsors signed on.

  • Bipartisan support

    Sponsored across 2 parties (1 D · 1 R) — cross-party backing.

  • Cleared a recorded vote

    Passed 3 recorded votes so far.

Prognosis reads this bill's own signals — stage, sponsorship breadth, committee status, recorded votes and cross-state momentum. Odds come from a model trained on which bills have become law.

Summary

Amend various sections of KRS Chapter 313 to amend terms; require the Kentucky Board of Dentistry to affiliate with all testing qualifying examinations for licensure; require the board to purchase liability insurance for board and staff against acts performed in good faith; permit the board to designate trust and agency account funds for scholarships or education loan repayment assistance; add the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards for recognizing licensure of specialists; require rather than permit minimum classification licensure of dental hygienists; clarify how a dental hygienist shall operate in a dental practice; amend conditions for providing dental hygienist services; amend services provided by dental assistants; amend provisions relating to radiography; allow for consent by legal representative during telehealth sessions; amend license and registration restrictions related to licensure and ownership titles; allow the Law Enforcement Committee to offer an agreed order during complaint investigations; permit the Well-being Committee to enter into contractual agreements; direct employment provisions for dental laboratories operating or doing business in Kentucky; create a new section of KRS Chapter 313 to establish controls over clinical settings by licensed dentists; prohibit establishing reimbursement rates by a dental practice entity; permit entities controlling a dental practice under a contract to continue exercising control; prohibit new or expanded entities; make technical corrections and remove outdated language; create a new section of KRS Chapter 313 the chapter may be cited as the Kentucky Dental Practice Act. .

Bill Text

What changed in the latest version

796 added · 1068 removed

796 line(s) added, 1068 removed.

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UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN AN ACT relating to health care services and declaring an emergency.
CHAPTER 131 1 CHAPTER 131 ( HB 776 ) AN ACT relating to health care services and declaring an emergency.
(7) "Dental laboratory" includes any person, firm, or corporation other than a licensed dentist, who directly or through an agent or employee, by any means or method, in any way supplies or manufactures artificial substitutes for the natural teeth, other than those unfinished substitutes normally available through dental supply houses, Page 1 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN or who furnishes supplies, constructs, or reproduces or repairs any prosthetic denture, bridge, or appliance to be worn in the human mouth, or who performs or offers or undertakes to perform or accomplish dental laboratory technology;
(7) "Dental laboratory" includes any person, firm, or corporation other than a licensed dentist, who directly or through an agent or employee, by any means or method, in any way supplies or manufactures artificial substitutes for the natural teeth, other than those unfinished substitutes normally available through dental supply houses, or who furnishes supplies, constructs, or reproduces or repairs any prosthetic denture, bridge, or appliance to be worn in the human mouth, or who performs or offers or undertakes to perform or accomplish dental laboratory technology;
Diagnoses or treats diseases or lesions of human teeth or jaws, or attempts to correct malpositions thereof;[, or who ] 3.
Diagnoses or treats diseases or lesions of human teeth or jaws, or attempts to correct malpositions thereof;[, or who ] Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 3.
Diagnoses or treats disorders, or deficiencies of the oral cavity and adjacent associated structures;[, or who ] Page 2 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN 4.
Diagnoses or treats disorders, or deficiencies of the oral cavity and adjacent associated structures;[, or who ] 4.
(13) "General supervision" means a circumstance of treatment in which a dentist licensed under this chapter must diagnose and authorize the work to be performed on a patient by the dental hygienist authorized pursuant to administrative regulation to work under general supervision but the dentist is not required to be on the Page 3 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN premises while the treatment is carried out;
(13) "General supervision" means a circumstance of treatment in which a dentist licensed under this chapter must diagnose and authorize the work to be performed on a patient by the dental hygienist authorized pursuant to administrative regulation to work under general supervision but the dentist is not required to be on the premises while the treatment is carried out;
Each[ appointment to the board of a licensed dental hygienist] shall be[ made] from a list of three (3) names recommended for this position by the resident licensed dental hygienists of Kentucky at an annual election at a time selected by the board;[.] (c) One (1) voting member shall be a citizen at large who is not associated with or financially interested in the practice or business regulated;[.] (d) One (1) nonvoting ex officio representative from each dental school program in Kentucky that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation Page 4 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (CODA)[the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville] shall represent the dental schools' interests;[.] (e) Two (2)[One (1)] nonvoting ex officio representatives[representative] from the[a] dental hygiene degree programs in Kentucky that are accredited by CODA and that are[program] not associated with a dental school[the University of Kentucky or the University of Louisville] shall represent the dental hygiene programs' interests.
Each[ appointment to the board of a licensed dental hygienist] shall be[ made] from a list of three (3) names recommended for this position by the resident licensed dental hygienists of Kentucky at an annual election at a time selected by the board;[.] (c) One (1) voting member shall be a citizen at large who is not associated with or financially interested in the practice or business regulated;[.] (d) One (1) nonvoting ex officio representative from each dental school program in Kentucky that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)[the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville] shall represent the dental schools' interests;[.] (e) Two (2)[One (1)] nonvoting ex officio representatives[representative] from the[a] dental hygiene degree programs in Kentucky that are accredited by CODA and that are[program] not associated with CHAPTER 131 3 a dental school[the University of Kentucky or the University of Louisville] shall represent the dental hygiene programs' interests.
(b) At the first meeting of the board after July 1, elect officers of the board by Page 5 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN majority vote of the members present;
(b) At the first meeting of the board after July 1, elect officers of the board by majority vote of the members present;
(a) Exercise all of the administrative functions of the Commonwealth in the regulation of the profession of dentistry, including but not limited to dentists, Page 6 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN dental hygienists, dental assistants, and dental laboratories;
(a) Exercise all of the administrative functions of the Commonwealth in the regulation of the profession of dentistry, including but not limited to dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and dental laboratories;
1.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 1.
and Page 7 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN 7.
and 7.
Page 8 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (3) The board shall develop a proposed biennial budget for all administrative and operational functions and duties.
(3) The board shall develop a proposed biennial budget for all administrative and operational functions and duties.
(f) Other services and materials provided by the board;
CHAPTER 131 5 (f) Other services and materials provided by the board;
(4) The board may designate funds from the trust and agency account to administer scholarships or education loan repayment assistance to individuals who meet the Page 9 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN criteria established in an administrative regulation promulgated by the board in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A.
(4) The board may designate funds from the trust and agency account to administer scholarships or education loan repayment assistance to individuals who meet the criteria established in an administrative regulation promulgated by the board in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A.
(4) Any person who is licensed or registered by the board who allows his or her license or registration to lapse by failing to renew the license or registration as provided in this section may be reinstated by the board on payment of the current fee for Page 10 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN original licensure or registration in addition to any late fees and by meeting the requirements of administrative regulations promulgated by the board.
(4) Any person who is licensed or registered by the board who allows his or her license or registration to lapse by failing to renew the license or registration as provided in this section may be reinstated by the board on payment of the current fee for original licensure or registration in addition to any late fees and by meeting the requirements of administrative regulations promulgated by the board.
A holder of a license or registration shall retain it in his or her possession and be prepared to exhibit it upon demand by an employer or anyone to whom the holder of the license or registration offers treatment or any board member or staff member of the[ Kentucky] board[ of Dentistry].
A holder of a license or registration shall retain it in his or her possession and be prepared to exhibit it upon demand by an employer or anyone to whom the holder of the license or registration offers treatment or any board member or staff Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY member of the[ Kentucky] board[ of Dentistry].
(10) Failure or refusal to produce a license or registration upon demand shall be prima facie evidence that no such license or registration exists.[ (11) In order to ensure a proper transition during the implementation of the provisions of this section, the board may, for a period of no longer than three (3) years, extend a Page 11 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN license or registration of any person in order to utilize the expiration date provided for in this section.
(10) Failure or refusal to produce a license or registration upon demand shall be prima facie evidence that no such license or registration exists.[ (11) In order to ensure a proper transition during the implementation of the provisions of this section, the board may, for a period of no longer than three (3) years, extend a license or registration of any person in order to utilize the expiration date provided for in this section.
Page 12 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (5) Any dentist who serves on any committee, board, commission, or other entity which is duly constituted by any licensed hospital, dental society or association affiliated with the American Dental Association, dental care foundation affiliated with such dental society or association or governmental or quasi-governmental agency for the purpose of reviewing and evaluating the dental acts of other dentists, or dental auxiliary personnel, shall not be required to respond in damages for any action taken by him or her in good faith as a member of such committee, board, commission, or other entity.
(5) Any dentist who serves on any committee, board, commission, or other entity which is duly constituted by any licensed hospital, dental society or association affiliated with the American Dental Association, dental care foundation affiliated with such dental society or association or governmental or quasi-governmental agency for the purpose of reviewing and evaluating the dental acts of other dentists, or dental auxiliary personnel, shall not be required to respond in damages for any action taken by him or her in good faith as a member of such committee, board, commission, or other entity.
(3) A licensed dental hygienist shall practice under the supervision, order, control, and Page 13 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN full responsibility of a dentist licensed under this chapter and may practice:
(3) A licensed dental hygienist shall practice under the supervision, order, control, and full responsibility of a dentist licensed under this chapter and may practice:
(a) In a dental office, public or private school, health care facility, or government institution with a dentist on staff;
CHAPTER 131 7 (a) In a dental office, public or private school, health care facility, or government institution with a dentist on staff;
(6) A dental hygienist may provide the following procedures in a volunteer community Page 14 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN health setting without the supervision of a dentist:
(6) A dental hygienist may provide the following procedures in a volunteer community health setting without the supervision of a dentist:
and Page 15 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN 5.
and Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 5.
Page 16 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (1) The board shall promulgate administrative regulations in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A to define registration requirements, duties, training, and standards of practice that may be performed by a dental assistant who has a minimum of one (1) year of dental office experience.
(1) The board shall promulgate administrative regulations in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A to define registration requirements, duties, training, and standards of practice that may be performed by a dental assistant who has a minimum of one (1) year of dental office experience.
(a) Polishing activities are limited to the use of a rubber cap attached to a slow- speed rotary dental handpiece or dental hygiene cordless polisher;
(a) Polishing activities are limited to the use of a rubber cap attached to a slow-speed rotary dental handpiece or dental hygiene cordless polisher;
Page 17 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (7) Registered dental assistant services shall not include the following:
(7) Registered dental assistant services shall not include the following:
(b)[(c)] Treatment planning and prescription, including prescriptions for drugs or medicaments, or authorization for restorative, prosthodontic, or orthodontic appliances;
CHAPTER 131 9 (b)[(c)] Treatment planning and prescription, including prescriptions for drugs or medicaments, or authorization for restorative, prosthodontic, or orthodontic appliances;
Page 18 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (b) Those procedures allocated by this chapter to licensed dental hygienists or registered dental assistants;
(b) Those procedures allocated by this chapter to licensed dental hygienists or registered dental assistants;
(4) The executor or administrator of a deceased dentist's estate, or the legal guardian or authorized representative of a dentist who has become incapacitated, may contract Page 19 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN with another dentist or dentists to continue the operations of the deceased or incapacitated dentist's practice if the practice of the deceased or incapacitated dentist is a:
(4) The executor or administrator of a deceased dentist's estate, or the legal guardian or authorized representative of a dentist who has become incapacitated, may contract with another dentist or dentists to continue the operations of the deceased or incapacitated dentist's practice if the practice of the deceased or incapacitated dentist is a:
(6) Prior to contracting with another dentist or dentists to continue operations of a deceased or incapacitated dentist's practice, the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative shall file a notification of intent to contract for continuation of practice with the board on a form prescribed by the board.
(6) Prior to contracting with another dentist or dentists to continue operations of a deceased or incapacitated dentist's practice, the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative shall file a notification of Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY intent to contract for continuation of practice with the board on a form prescribed by the board.
(e) An affirmation, under penalty of perjury, that the information provided is true and correct and that the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative understands that any interference by the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative, or any agent or assignee of the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative, with the contracting dentist's or dentists' practice of dentistry or professional judgment or any other violation of this chapter is grounds for an immediate termination Page 20 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN of the operations of the dental practice;
(e) An affirmation, under penalty of perjury, that the information provided is true and correct and that the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative understands that any interference by the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative, or any agent or assignee of the executor, administrator, guardian, or authorized representative, with the contracting dentist's or dentists' practice of dentistry or professional judgment or any other violation of this chapter is grounds for an immediate termination of the operations of the dental practice;
(10) A licensed dentist may delegate to a licensed dental hygienist the administration of Page 21 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN block and infiltration anesthesia and nitrous oxide analgesia under the direct supervision of a dentist if the dental hygienist completes the following requirements and receives a certificate of verification from the board:
(10) A licensed dentist may delegate to a licensed dental hygienist the administration of block and infiltration anesthesia and nitrous oxide analgesia under the direct supervision of a dentist if the dental hygienist completes the following requirements and receives a certificate of verification from the board:
(11) The board shall approve all continuing education courses and require them for individuals holding anesthesia registration for over one (1) year without practical application.
CHAPTER 131 11 (11) The board shall approve all continuing education courses and require them for individuals holding anesthesia registration for over one (1) year without practical application.
Page 22 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (1) A person who is not licensed or registered[ to do so], or whose license or registration [to do so ]has been suspended, revoked, or denied, shall not practice as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant.
(1) A person who is not licensed or registered[ to do so], or whose license or registration [to do so ]has been suspended, revoked, or denied, shall not practice as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant.
The board may authorize Page 23 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN the students of any dental college, school, or department of a university to practice dentistry in any state or municipal institution or public school, or under the board of health, or in a public clinic or a charitable institution.
The board may authorize the students of any dental college, school, or department of a university to practice dentistry in any state or municipal institution or public school, or under the board of health, or in a public clinic or a charitable institution.
Page 24 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN 1.
1.
4.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 4.
or (d) ]maintain any license or certificate authorized by this chapter if convicted of, having entered a guilty plea to, having entered an Alford plea to, or having completed a diversion program for a Class A, B, or C felony offense on or Page 25 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN after the date of initial licensure or registration.
or (d) ]maintain any license or certificate authorized by this chapter if convicted of, having entered a guilty plea to, having entered an Alford plea to, or having completed a diversion program for a Class A, B, or C felony offense on or after the date of initial licensure or registration.
Engage in conduct that is subject to the penalties under KRS 304.99- 060(4) or (5);
Engage in conduct that is subject to the penalties under KRS 304.99-060(4) or (5);
Page 26 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (h) Are convicted of a misdemeanor which involved fraud, deceit, breach of trust, or physical harm or endangerment to self or others, acts which bear directly on the qualifications or ability of the applicant, licensee, or certificate holder to practice acts in the license or registration held or sought, if in accordance with KRS Chapter 335B;
(h) Are convicted of a misdemeanor which involved fraud, deceit, breach of trust, or physical harm or endangerment to self or others, acts which bear directly on the qualifications or ability of the applicant, licensee, or certificate holder to practice acts in the license or registration held or sought, if in accordance with KRS Chapter 335B;
(j) Have had a license or certificate to practice as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant denied, limited, suspended, probated, revoked, or otherwise disciplined in Kentucky or in another jurisdiction on grounds sufficient to cause a license to be denied, limited, suspended, probated, revoked, or otherwise disciplined in this Commonwealth;
CHAPTER 131 13 (j) Have had a license or certificate to practice as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant denied, limited, suspended, probated, revoked, or otherwise disciplined in Kentucky or in another jurisdiction on grounds sufficient to cause a license to be denied, limited, suspended, probated, revoked, or otherwise disciplined in this Commonwealth;
Page 27 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN (4)[(3)] A person who violates subsection (1)(a), (b), (c), or (d) of this section shall be guilty of a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class A misdemeanor for each subsequent offense.
(4)[(3)] A person who violates subsection (1)(a), (b), (c), or (d) of this section shall be guilty of a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class A misdemeanor for each subsequent offense.
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(2) Any person may make a complaint to the executive director that a dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, or other person licensed or registered by the board has violated a provision of this chapter, an administrative regulation promulgated by the Page 28 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN board in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A[ pursuant to this chapter], a practice standard, or an order of the board.
(2) Any person may make a complaint to the executive director that a dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, or other person licensed or registered by the board has violated a provision of this chapter, an administrative regulation promulgated by the board in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A[ pursuant to this chapter], a practice standard, or an order of the board.
(d) Contain the name, address, telephone number, facsimile number, and email[e- mail] address, if available, of the complainant;
(d) Contain the name, address, telephone number, facsimile number, and email[e-mail] address, if available, of the complainant;
(4) A complaint which is unsigned shall not be acted upon by the executive director unless the complaint involves a violation of standards set forth by the Centers for Disease Control or alleged mental or physical impairment as provided for in KRS 313.130.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (4) A complaint which is unsigned shall not be acted upon by the executive director unless the complaint involves a violation of standards set forth by the Centers for Disease Control or alleged mental or physical impairment as provided for in KRS 313.130.
(7) The staff investigator shall notify the person or organization against whom the complaint has been filed and shall notify the employer of the dentist, dental Page 29 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN hygienist, or dental assistant of the complaint.
(7) The staff investigator shall notify the person or organization against whom the complaint has been filed and shall notify the employer of the dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant of the complaint.
(13) A hearing panel for purposes of making a decision in any disciplinary matter shall Page 30 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN consist of a quorum of the remaining seven (7) voting members of the board who are not on the Law Enforcement Committee and the hearing officer.
(13) A hearing panel for purposes of making a decision in any disciplinary matter shall consist of a quorum of the remaining seven (7) voting members of the board who are not on the Law Enforcement Committee and the hearing officer.
(19) Any person or entity aggrieved by a final order of the board may appeal the final order to the Circuit Court of the county in which the person or entity resides in accordance with KRS Chapter 13B.
CHAPTER 131 15 (19) Any person or entity aggrieved by a final order of the board may appeal the final order to the Circuit Court of the county in which the person or entity resides in accordance with KRS Chapter 13B.
(1) If the Law Enforcement Committee has reasonable cause to believe any licensee or Page 31 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN certificate holder or any applicant for licensure or registration by examination, reinstatement, credentials, or change of status is unable to practice with reasonable skill or safety or has abused alcohol or drugs, it may require such person to submit to a mental or physical examination by a physician or psychologist it designates.
(1) If the Law Enforcement Committee has reasonable cause to believe any licensee or certificate holder or any applicant for licensure or registration by examination, reinstatement, credentials, or change of status is unable to practice with reasonable skill or safety or has abused alcohol or drugs, it may require such person to submit to a mental or physical examination by a physician or psychologist it designates.
The board may enter into [a ]contractual Page 32 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN agreements[agreement with a nonprofit corporation or a dental association] for the purpose of creating, supporting, and maintaining the Well-being Committee.
The board may enter into [a ]contractual agreements[agreement with a nonprofit corporation or a dental association] for the purpose of creating, supporting, and maintaining the Well-being Committee.
(a) It is essential to disclose the information to further the intervention, treatment, Page 33 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN or rehabilitation needs of the impaired individual, and only to those persons or organizations with a need to know;
(a) It is essential to disclose the information to further the intervention, treatment, or rehabilitation needs of the impaired individual, and only to those persons or organizations with a need to know;
(b) Its release is authorized in writing by the impaired individual;
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (b) Its release is authorized in writing by the impaired individual;
Page 34 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN SECTION 17.
SECTION 17.
a.[1.]Reimbursement from a plan is provided by the enrollee's plan contract;
a.[1.] Reimbursement from a plan is provided by the enrollee's plan contract;
or b.[2.]Reimbursement would be available but for the application of the enrollee's contractual limitations of deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or frequency limitations;
or b.[2.] Reimbursement would be available but for the application of the enrollee's contractual limitations of deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or frequency limitations;
(4) The amount of a contractual discount shall not result in a fee that is less than the limited health service benefit plan would pay for covered services but for the Page 35 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 776/EN application an enrollee's contractual limitations of deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or frequency limitations.
(4) The amount of a contractual discount shall not result in a fee that is less than the limited health service benefit plan would pay for covered services but for the application an enrollee's contractual limitations of deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or frequency limitations.
(6) The provisions of this section shall not be waived by contract.
CHAPTER 131 17 (6) The provisions of this section shall not be waived by contract.
Page 36 of 36 HB077620.100 - 2110 - XXXX 4/1/2026 8:59 PM Engrossed
Signed by Governor April 13, 2026.
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How this bill changes current law

11 changes Share ↗

Compared against the Kentucky Revised Statutes as published AI-generated reading aid — verify against the official bill.

The bill amends several definitions related to dental professionals and the composition of the Kentucky Board of Dentistry to clarify educational requirements and make minor grammatical changes.

  • KRS 313.010

    has graduated from a CODA accredited dental hygiene program at an institute of higher learning and has been credentialed as a "Registered Dental Hygienist"

    Removes specific educational requirements for dental hygienists in the definition.

  • KRS 313.010

    practices in fields of specialty recognized and approved by the American Dental Association

    Removes the requirement for dental specialists to be approved by the American Dental Association.

  • KRS 313.010

    has graduated from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) accredited dental school and has been conferred with the degree of "Doctor of Medical Dentistry" (D.M.D.) or "Doctor of Dental Surgery" (D.D.S.)

    Removes specific educational requirements for dentists.

  • KRS 313.010

    or who

    Clarifies the language for actions associated with practicing dentistry by removing unnecessary repetition.

  • KRS 313.020

    [.]

    Corrects punctuation for clarity.

  • KRS 313.020

    [appointment to the board of a licensed dental hygienist] shall be[ made]

    Clarifies language regarding the appointment of licensed dental hygienists to the board.

  • KRS 313.020

    [the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville]

    Removes specific reference to the universities, simplifying representation from dental schools.

  • KRS 313.020

    [the University of Kentucky or the University of Louisville]

    Further simplifies language regarding representatives from dental hygiene programs.

  • KRS 313.020

    [for]

    Removes superfluous wording for clarity.

  • KRS 313.020

    No board member shall not

    Corrects the double negative to clarify the term limits for board members.

  • KRS 313.020

    [.]

    Removes unnecessary punctuation for clarity.

Action History

  1. signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 131)

  2. delivered to Governor

  3. enrolled, signed by President of the Senate

  4. enrolled, signed by Speaker of the House

  5. passed 90-0

  6. House concurred in Committee Substitute (1), Floor Amendment (1) and Floor Amendment (2-title)

  7. posted for passage for concurrence in Senate Committee Substitute (1), Floor Amendment (1) and Floor Amendment (2-title)

  8. to Rules (H)

  9. received in House

  10. 3rd reading, passed 37-0 with Committee Substitute (1), Floor Amendment (1) and Floor Amendment (2-title)

  11. floor amendment (1) filed to Committee Substitute , floor amendment (2-title) filed to bill

  12. passed over and retained in the Orders of the Day

  13. posted for passage in the Regular Orders of the Day for Tuesday, March 31 2026

  14. 2nd reading, to Rules

  15. reported favorably, 1st reading, to Calendar with Committee Substitute (1) and Committee Amendment (1-title)

  16. to Licensing & Occupations (S)

  17. to Committee on Committees (S)

  18. received in Senate

  19. 3rd reading, passed 96-0 with Floor Amendments (2) and (1)

  20. posted for passage in the Regular Orders of the Day for Tuesday, March 10 2026

  21. 2nd reading, to Rules

  22. floor amendments (1) and (2) filed

  23. reported favorably, 1st reading, to Calendar

  24. to Licensing, Occupations, & Administrative Regulations (H)

  25. to Committee on Committees (H)

  26. introduced in House

Sponsors

Sponsorship breakdown

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2 sponsors · 0 co-sponsors · 136 not signed on

Sponsors (2)

Co-sponsors (0)

None.

Not signed on (136)

136 members have not signed on to this bill.

Show all 136 →

"Not signed on" means a member has not sponsored or co-sponsored this bill — it does not imply opposition. Members flagged Voted No have a recorded No vote on this bill.

Whip count is in markup. Polling the chamber and every recorded vote this session. Only the first open is slow. It’s instant for you after this. Calling the roll · Tallying · Engrossing

Votes

PASS HB 776 w/ SCS 1, SFA 1, SFA 2 (T)

Passed 37 Yea · 0 Nay · 1 Other
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Democrat 5000
Republican 32001
Total 37001
% of votes cast 97%0%0%3%
How each member voted (38)
Member Party Vote
Cassie Chambers Armstrong Democrat Yea
Gary Clemons Democrat Yea
Gerald A. Neal Democrat Yea
Karen Berg Democrat Yea
Keturah J. Herron Democrat Yea
Aaron Reed Republican Yea
Amanda Mays Bledsoe Republican Yea
Brandon J. Storm Republican Yea
Christian McDaniel Republican Yea
Craig Richardson Republican Yea
Danny Carroll Republican Yea
David P. Givens Republican Yea
Donald Douglas Republican Yea
Gary Boswell Republican Yea
Greg Elkins Republican Yea
Jared Carpenter Republican Yea
Jason Howell Republican Yea
Jason Nemes Republican Yea
Jimmy Higdon Republican Yea
Julie Raque Adams Republican Yea
Lindsey Tichenor Republican Yea
Matt Nunn Republican Yea
Matthew Deneen Republican Yea
Max Wise Republican Yea
Michael Meredith Republican Yea
Nick Wilson Republican Yea
Phillip Wheeler Republican Yea
Rick Girdler Republican Yea
Robby Mills Republican Yea
Robert Stivers Republican Not Voting
Robin L. Webb Republican Yea
Scott Madon Republican Yea
Shelley Funke Frommeyer Republican Yea
Stephen West Republican Yea
Steve Rawlings Republican Yea
Tom Smith Republican Yea
Wade Williams Republican Yea
Walker Thomas Republican Yea

Official roll call →

Final Passage

Passed 90 Yea · 0 Nay · 10 Other
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Democrat 18002
Republican 71008
Unaffiliated 1000
Total 900010
% of votes cast 90%0%0%10%
How each member voted (100)
Member Party Vote
Lewis C — Yea
Adam Moore Democrat Yea
Adrielle Camuel Democrat Yea
Al Gentry Democrat Yea
Anne Gay Donworth Democrat Yea
Ashley Tackett Laferty Democrat Yea
Beverly Chester-Burton Democrat Not Voting
Chad Aull Democrat Yea
Daniel Grossberg Democrat Yea
Erika Hancock Democrat Not Voting
George Brown Jr. Democrat Yea
Joshua Watkins Democrat Yea
Lindsey Burke Democrat Yea
Lisa Willner Democrat Yea
Mary Lou Marzian Democrat Yea
Matthew Lehman Democrat Yea
Nima Kulkarni Democrat Yea
Pamela Stevenson Democrat Yea
Rachel Roarx Democrat Yea
Sarah Stalker Democrat Yea
Tina Bojanowski Democrat Yea
Aaron Thompson Republican Yea
Adam Bowling Republican Yea
Amy Neighbors Republican Yea
Bill Wesley Republican Yea
Bobby McCool Republican Yea
Candy Massaroni Republican Not Voting
Chris Freeland Republican Not Voting
Chris Fugate Republican Yea
DJ Johnson Republican Yea
Daniel Elliott Republican Not Voting
Daniel Fister Republican Yea
David Hale Republican Yea
David Meade Republican Yea
David W. Osborne Republican Yea
Deanna Gordon Republican Yea
Derek Lewis Republican Yea
Emily Callaway Republican Yea
Felicia Rabourn Republican Yea
J.T. Payne Republican Yea
James Tipton Republican Yea
Jared Bauman Republican Yea
Jason Nemes Republican Yea
Jason Petrie Republican Not Voting
Jennifer Decker Republican Yea
Jim Gooch Jr. Republican Yea
John Blanton Republican Yea
John Hodgson Republican Yea
Josh Branscum Republican Yea
Josh Bray Republican Yea
Josh Calloway Republican Yea
Ken Fleming Republican Yea
Ken Upchurch Republican Yea
Kevin Jackson Republican Yea
Kim Banta Republican Yea
Kim Holloway Republican Yea
Kim King Republican Yea
Kimberly Poore Moser Republican Yea
Marianne Proctor Republican Yea
Mark Hart Republican Yea
Mary Beth Imes Republican Yea
Matt Lockett Republican Yea
Matthew Koch Republican Yea
Michael Meredith Republican Yea
Michael Sarge Pollock Republican Yea
Mike Clines Republican Yea
Mitch Whitaker Republican Yea
Myron Dossett Republican Yea
Nancy Tate Republican Not Voting
Nick Wilson Republican Yea
Patrick Flannery Republican Yea
Peyton Griffee Republican Yea
Randy Bridges Republican Yea
Rebecca Raymer Republican Yea
Richard White Republican Yea
Robert Duvall Republican Yea
Ryan Bivens Republican Yea
Ryan Dotson Republican Yea
Samara Heavrin Republican Yea
Savannah Maddox Republican Yea
Scott Lewis Republican Yea
Scott Sharp Republican Yea
Shane Baker Republican Not Voting
Shawn McPherson Republican Yea
Stephanie Dietz Republican Yea
Steve Bratcher Republican Yea
Steve Riley Republican Yea
Steven Doan Republican Yea
Steven Rudy Republican Not Voting
Susan Witten Republican Yea
Suzanne Miles Republican Yea
T.J. Roberts Republican Yea
Thomas Huff Republican Yea
Timmy Truett Republican Yea
Tom Smith Republican Yea
Tony Hampton Republican Yea
Vanessa Grossl Republican Yea
Wade Williams Republican Yea
Walker Thomas Republican Yea
William Lawrence Republican Not Voting

Official roll call →

Pass

Passed 96 Yea · 0 Nay · 4 Other
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Democrat 20000
Republican 75004
Unaffiliated 1000
Total 96004
% of votes cast 96%0%0%4%
How each member voted (100)
Member Party Vote
Lewis C — Yea
Adam Moore Democrat Yea
Adrielle Camuel Democrat Yea
Al Gentry Democrat Yea
Anne Gay Donworth Democrat Yea
Ashley Tackett Laferty Democrat Yea
Beverly Chester-Burton Democrat Yea
Chad Aull Democrat Yea
Daniel Grossberg Democrat Yea
Erika Hancock Democrat Yea
George Brown Jr. Democrat Yea
Joshua Watkins Democrat Yea
Lindsey Burke Democrat Yea
Lisa Willner Democrat Yea
Mary Lou Marzian Democrat Yea
Matthew Lehman Democrat Yea
Nima Kulkarni Democrat Yea
Pamela Stevenson Democrat Yea
Rachel Roarx Democrat Yea
Sarah Stalker Democrat Yea
Tina Bojanowski Democrat Yea
Aaron Thompson Republican Yea
Adam Bowling Republican Yea
Amy Neighbors Republican Yea
Bill Wesley Republican Yea
Bobby McCool Republican Yea
Candy Massaroni Republican Yea
Chris Freeland Republican Yea
Chris Fugate Republican Yea
DJ Johnson Republican Yea
Daniel Elliott Republican Yea
Daniel Fister Republican Yea
David Hale Republican Yea
David Meade Republican Yea
David W. Osborne Republican Yea
Deanna Gordon Republican Yea
Derek Lewis Republican Yea
Emily Callaway Republican Yea
Felicia Rabourn Republican Not Voting
J.T. Payne Republican Yea
James Tipton Republican Yea
Jared Bauman Republican Yea
Jason Nemes Republican Yea
Jason Petrie Republican Yea
Jennifer Decker Republican Yea
Jim Gooch Jr. Republican Yea
John Blanton Republican Yea
John Hodgson Republican Yea
Josh Branscum Republican Yea
Josh Bray Republican Yea
Josh Calloway Republican Yea
Ken Fleming Republican Yea
Ken Upchurch Republican Yea
Kevin Jackson Republican Yea
Kim Banta Republican Yea
Kim Holloway Republican Yea
Kim King Republican Yea
Kimberly Poore Moser Republican Not Voting
Marianne Proctor Republican Yea
Mark Hart Republican Not Voting
Mary Beth Imes Republican Yea
Matt Lockett Republican Yea
Matthew Koch Republican Yea
Michael Meredith Republican Yea
Michael Sarge Pollock Republican Yea
Mike Clines Republican Yea
Mitch Whitaker Republican Yea
Myron Dossett Republican Yea
Nancy Tate Republican Yea
Nick Wilson Republican Yea
Patrick Flannery Republican Yea
Peyton Griffee Republican Yea
Randy Bridges Republican Yea
Rebecca Raymer Republican Yea
Richard White Republican Yea
Robert Duvall Republican Yea
Ryan Bivens Republican Yea
Ryan Dotson Republican Not Voting
Samara Heavrin Republican Yea
Savannah Maddox Republican Yea
Scott Lewis Republican Yea
Scott Sharp Republican Yea
Shane Baker Republican Yea
Shawn McPherson Republican Yea
Stephanie Dietz Republican Yea
Steve Bratcher Republican Yea
Steve Riley Republican Yea
Steven Doan Republican Yea
Steven Rudy Republican Yea
Susan Witten Republican Yea
Suzanne Miles Republican Yea
T.J. Roberts Republican Yea
Thomas Huff Republican Yea
Timmy Truett Republican Yea
Tom Smith Republican Yea
Tony Hampton Republican Yea
Vanessa Grossl Republican Yea
Wade Williams Republican Yea
Walker Thomas Republican Yea
William Lawrence Republican Yea

Official roll call →

Subjects

healthcare health-insurance
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Frequently asked questions

What does HB 776 do?
Amend various sections of KRS Chapter 313 to amend terms; require the Kentucky Board of Dentistry to affiliate with all testing qualifying examinations for licensure; require the board to purchase liability insurance for board and staff against acts performed in good faith; permit the board to designate trust and agency account funds for scholarships or education loan repayment assistance; add the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards for recognizing licensure of specialists; require rather than permit minimum classification licensure of dental hygienists; clarify how a dental hygienist shall operate in a dental practice; amend conditions for providing dental hygienist services; amend services provided by dental assistants; amend provisions relating to radiography; allow for consent by legal representative during telehealth sessions; amend license and registration restrictions related to licensure and ownership titles; allow the Law Enforcement Committee to offer an agreed order during complaint investigations; permit the Well-being Committee to enter into contractual agreements; direct employment provisions for dental laboratories operating or doing business in Kentucky; create a new section of KRS Chapter 313 to establish controls over clinical settings by licensed dentists; prohibit establishing reimbursement rates by a dental practice entity; permit entities controlling a dental practice under a contract to continue exercising control; prohibit new or expanded entities; make technical corrections and remove outdated language; create a new section of KRS Chapter 313 the chapter may be cited as the Kentucky Dental Practice Act. .
Who sponsors HB 776?
HB 776 is sponsored by Chad Aull (Democrat) and Derek Lewis (Republican).
What is the current status of HB 776?
This bill has been enacted into law. Introduced February 27, 2026. Enacted.
Where can I track HB 776?
Track HB 776 free on One Click Politics — get push/email alerts when it moves.

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