An Act relating to the practice of dental hygiene; establishing an executive administrator position for the Board of Dental Examiners; and relating to the ownership of dental offices and clinics.

HB 197 updates Alaska's dental hygiene licensing requirements and board structure. It requires dental hygienists to complete an accredited two-year program, pass written and clinical exams, and meet specific background checks to obtain a license. The bill establishes an executive administrator position for the Board of Dental Examiners and mandates two hours of continuing education on pain management and opioid use for license renewals. Additionally, it expands the board's duties to maintain a registry of licensed professionals and enforce disciplinary actions.