Dentists, EFDAs, dental assistants and dental hygienists in Washington state are currently required to complete seven hours of instruction in HIV/AIDS education and training in order to be licensed. However, as of June 11, 2020, this education and training will no longer be required.

During the 2020 legislative session, in an effort to update Washington’s laws regarding HIV transmission, the legislature passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1551. The bill, among other things, removes the requirement for all health care professionals to complete education and training on the prevention, transmission, and treatment of AIDS.

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission will begin rulemaking in the near future to align current rules with the new law.

Please visit wsda.org/regulations for updates as they become available.