FRANKFORT, Ky. — State Representative Derek Lewis has been recognized by the Kentucky Dental Association with a 2026 Presidential Citation Award for his work advancing legislation that modernizes the state's dental regulations, according to a statement from the Kentucky House Majority Caucus.

Lewis, R-London, sponsored House Bill 776, which updated Kentucky's Dental Practice Act and was signed into law on April 13. The legislation makes several changes to how dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants operate in the state. Among other provisions, it lifts prohibitions on hygienists making final impressions for dental restorations and allows hygienists to treat patients without a supervising dentist being physically present as long as the patient has been seen by the supervising dentist within the last 11 months.

"Dental healthcare is an issue that impacts the overall health and well-being of Kentuckians in both rural and urban areas of our state, which is why our dental laws need to be modernized," Lewis said in a statement, adding that the law provides "a clearer regulatory framework for providers, and strengthen patient protections."

The bill also permits the Kentucky Board of Dentistry to designate trust and agency account funds for scholarships or education loan repayment assistance and updates telehealth standards. According to the Kentucky Dental Association, the presidential citation is given annually to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the organization and dental health in Kentucky.