News from the Senate Majority
Alaska State Legislature

Wendy Lindskoog, Senate Majority Press Secretary
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801-1182
Phone: 907/465-4582
http://www.akrepublicans.org
Broadcast Actualities: 800/478-6540

Senate Passes Bill to Improve Inspection of Dental Equipment, Protect Public Safety

For Immediate Release: April 21, 1998 Contact: Senator Robin Taylor, at (907) 465-3873.

Juneau -- The Senate today by a margin of 16-4 passed and sent to the House a bill, SB 160, sponsored by Senator Robin Taylor that would increase efficiency of inspections of radiological equipment used by dentists.

The bill transfers responsibility for inspections from the Department of Health and Social Services to the Board of Dentistry and the private sector. "This bill will improve the reliability of the inspection program," said Senator Taylor. "Currently some dentists go ten years or more without having their radiological equipment inspected. My bill requires inspections at least every five years.

The bill requires the Board of Dentistry to establish minimum educational and professional standards for technicians performing the inspections. "This measure will establish a quality program to protect the public and the Alaskans who work in dental offices," said Senator Taylor.

The bill goes to the House following a possible reconsideration vote tomorrow.

# # #

Broadcast Note: Radio actuality available at 800-478-6540.
= Robin Taylor, 71 K