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Two Hinkle bills signed into
law by the governor
New laws address expected dentist shortage,
organ donation
Two bills sponsored by
Rep.
Bill Hinkle were signed into law by the governor today. One
measure will address an expected dentist shortage in the state, and
another will strengthen the state’s organ donation law.
House Bill 2881 will create an exception to examination
requirements for dental license applicants who have practiced in another
state for at least four years and have completed a one-year,
post-doctoral residency.
“We expect that half of the dentists in our state may retire in the next
five years or so –and this shortage could be even more prevalent in
rural areas and among underserved populations. My bill will help address
this future shortage,” said Hinkle, R-Cle Elum. “We are opening a new
pathway for qualified dentists who have previously been excluded from practicing in
Washington.”
House Bill 1637 will adopt an amended version of the 2006
Uniform Anatomical Gift Act to regulate the donation of, or refusal to
donate, bodies or body parts for transplantation, therapy, research, or
education.
“This resolves many concerns under current law. Most importantly, the
right of an individual to donate organs – or to refuse to – is
strengthened,” said Hinkle. “I also believe we are also a step
closer to uniformity with other states, which is important when we
consider the time-sensitive nature of organ donation. I truly believe
this bill will
save lives.”
The 2008 legislative session ended March 13.
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