Pierre, SD, USA / DRGNews Apr 27, 2021 3:50 PM A group of South Dakota professionals are required to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect, and dental hygienists will soon be added to that list. House bill 1132 was signed into law by Gov. Kristi Noem following the 2021 Legislative Session and its language will be added to existing law in July. Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment (CPCM) Director Carrie Sanderson said she is happy to add this important group of professionals to those required to report abuse and neglect. “Dental hygienists visit with patients, get to know them and are able to sound the alarm if they suspect a child is experiencing harm,” Sanderson said. “Building a lifeline of child advocacy partners in the medical profession is crucial to preventing further harm to the children of South Dakota.”