The committee unanimously recommended advancing Senate Bill 433, which would allow New Mexico to join an interstate compact enabling licensed dentists and dental hygienists from participating states to obtain privileges to practice in member states more quickly.

Sponsor testimony said the compact preserves state authority over scope of practice and requires professionals to apply for a state-specific privilege — including a jurisprudence exam — before practicing under compact privileges. Tom Skrupsema of the New Mexico Dental Association told the committee the compact would make New Mexico more attractive to dentists and hygienists and help recruit professionals back to the state; representatives of community clinics and the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce also spoke in favor. A sponsor noted that the compact was developed through the Council of State Governments and benefits from lessons learned in earlier compacts.

Committee members asked technical questions about administration, rulemaking and potential liability or insurance implications. Witnesses acknowledged malpractice and insurance challenges in New Mexico and cited low Medicaid reimbursement and business conditions as additional factors affecting recruitment and retention. The compact includes provisions for a compact commission to oversee administration, a data system for tracking privileges, and a commission rulemaking process; witnesses said the commission would review state statutes for compatibility and that participation requires adoption of conforming statutory language.

Senators praised the provision exempting active-duty military members and spouses from some requirements, noting that portability benefits military families and may aid recruitment and retention in communities near bases. The committee passed the bill with a due-pass recommendation by roll call (9–0).