The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that two bills have languished in House and Senate committees without hearings. The bills would allow for a mid-level dental provider to do about 30 basic dental procedures. Those procedures include “nonsurgical extraction” of diseased permanent teeth that are already loose.

The providers would be licensed dental hygienists who pass a clinical exam, have practiced for 500 hours under the direct supervision of a dentist and purchase liability insurance. Advocates note that there is a shortage of dental care in many Kansas counties.

But the Kansas Dental Association has objected, raising concerns about safety and the creation of two levels of care.