Thousands Urge Arizona Governor to Reverse Dental Law Allowing Assistants to Provide Prophylaxes
More than 2,000 concerned citizens have signed a petition asking Governor Katie Hobbs to rescind SB1124, which allows dental assistants with only 120 hours of training to perform prophylaxes. Petitioners argue the law compromises patient safety and undermines the role of licensed dental hygienists.
A growing Change.org petition is calling on Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs to rescind SB1124 — a controversial new law that allows oral preventive assistants (OPAs) to perform dental cleanings after only 120 hours of training. In contrast, licensed dental hygienists complete nearly 3,000 hours of education through Commission on Dental Accreditation-accredited programs. Petition signers, now numbering over 2,000, fear the law compromises patient safety, reduces diagnostic effectiveness, and eliminates critical oral cancer screenings. “Arizonans deserve safe, evidence-based care — not shortcuts,” said petition starter Maria Altamirano, RDH, of Marana, Arizona. Critics say the bill prioritizes workforce gaps over health standards and are urging Hobbs to reconsider the legislation for the sake of public health. Click here to read more.
