(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that the dental hygiene board seek ways and means to identify and rehabilitate licensees whose competency may be impaired due to abuse of dangerous drugs or alcohol, so that licensees so afflicted may be treated and returned to the practice of dental hygiene in a manner that will not endanger the public health and safety. It is also the intent of the Legislature that the dental hygiene board establish a diversion program as a voluntary alternative approach to traditional disciplinary actions.
(b) One or more diversion evaluation committees shall be established by the dental hygiene board. The dental hygiene board shall establish criteria for the selection of each diversion evaluation committee. Each member of a diversion evaluation committee shall receive per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103.
(Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 50. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)