As a member of the Virginia Dental Hygienists’ Association and practicing RDH of 42 years, I am requesting the Board of Dentistry to reconsider their decision to not issue guidance for the new scaling assistant law passed during the most recent General Assembly session.  I was not in favor of this legislation, but the damage has been done and cannot be undone without General Assembly action.

I concur with all points submitted by Marge Green so I will not repeat.  I ask the question, What is the purpose of the Board of Dentistry?  To protect the public health and safety.  Please begin a rulemaking process to provide clear standards and regulations.  The Board was very involved in the past with the DAII.   General/ remote supervision, and local anesthesia regulations for the degree holding licensed dental hygienists and the concern was always safety of the patient.  Why do you suddenly feel a non-licensed and very possibly non-degree holding individual without public safety regulations and clear standards for education does not require the same process and follow consistent regulations. 

Thank you for the opportunity to present comment.