Sec. 260.002. EMPLOYMENT BY CERTAIN NONPROFIT HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

(a) The board shall, on a form and under rules adopted by the board, approve and certify a health organization to contract with or employ dentists licensed by the board if the organization, in its application to the board, presents satisfactory proof to the board that the organization:

(1) is a nonprofit corporation under the Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act (Article 1396-1.01 et seq., Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes) and Section 501(c)(3), Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. Section 501); and

(2) is organized and operated as:

(A) a migrant, community, or homeless health center under 42 U.S.C. Section 254b or 254c; or

(B) a federally qualified health center under 42 U.S.C. Section 1396d(l)(2)(B).

(b) A dentist providing dental services under Subsection (a) shall provide those services free of charge or at a reduced fee equal to the patient's ability to pay in strict compliance with 42 U.S.C. Section 254b or 254c.

(c) The board may refuse to approve or certify a health organization that applies to the board under this section if the board determines that the nonprofit corporation is established, organized, or operated in violation of or with the intent to circumvent this section.

Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.