Lawmakers hear divided testimony on bill to add consumer members, change complaint process for State Board of Dental Examiners

Representative Don Vigasaw introduced House Bill 1512 on behalf of a constituent who described a contentious dental experience. The bill would amend North Dakota Century Code sections relating to the State Board of Dental Examiners to add two independent consumer members, require the board to direct a complaint committee to investigate complaints, mandate that complainants receive a copy of a dentist’s response, and grant a complainant who obtains disciplinary action a right to recover costs incurred.

Jerome (Joe) Francis, the constituent whose experience prompted the bill, described extensive dental work he said did not match his instructions. He testified he filed a complaint with the dental board but the board dismissed it; Francis said the treatment he received was “exactly what I told [the dentist] I would refuse” and that resolving the issue would cost tens of thousands of dollars.

David Shibley, executive director of the State Board of Dental Examiners, told the committee the board is mindful of patient frustration but said the proposed changes would substantially reconfigure the board’s role…