The Maine Senate killed a bill passed by the House that would have allowed dental hygienists to set up independent practices in the state.
The Bangor Daily News reported the Senate turned down the bill in a 14-21 vote Wednesday.
Supporters said the bill would help expand dental care access to rural areas, while Maine dentists opposed the bill and argued that its passage would not improve dental care access in rural areas.
The House had given the bill initial approval Tuesday in a 95-45 vote.
