Dentistry; increase penalties for unlawful practice of.

HB 1366 would have increased penalties for practicing dental hygiene or dentistry without a license in Mississippi. For unlicensed dental hygiene, fines would rise to $2,000-$5,000 or 2-6 months in jail (currently the same). For unlicensed dentistry, it would elevate the offense to a felony: first offenses could mean $3,000-$10,000 fines or 1-3 years in prison, with harsher penalties for repeat violations (up to $10,000 fines or 3-10 years). Courts could also order offenders to pay restitution for victim costs. The bill died in committee on February 3, 2026, and did not become law.