In the States
The AGD and Wisconsin AGD sent a letter to the City of Madison Water Utility Board in advance of their August 25 meeting, and in support of community water fluoridation (CFW).
HHS Releases Healthy People 2030
On August 18, the HHS Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) released Healthy People 2030 (HP2030) – the 5th version of the Healthy People initiative.
House Committee Initiates Investigation into Health & Dental Insurers
The House Energy & Commerce Committee sent oversight letters to nine health and dental insurance companies on August 13, seeking information on their policies and practices amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
AGD Initiates Dialogue with the National Association of Dental Plans
The National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) responded to AGD’s letter sent on July 7, and welcomed open communications between the organizations.
AGD Thanks Sponsors of Provider Relief Fund Tax Deductibility Bill
On August 13, AGD sent a letter to Reps. Cindy Axne (R-IA) and Neal Dunn (R-FL) expressing support for their recently introduced legislation, the Eliminating the Provider Relief Fund Tax Penalties Act of 2020 (H.R.7819).
In the States
Governor Chris Sununu recently signed HB 1639 into law: legislation that addresses non-covered dental services, among other health care-related issues.
HHS Extends Dental Provider Relief Fund Application Deadline
The U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS) once again extended the deadline for both non-Medicaid and Medicaid/CHIP dental providers to apply for distribution under the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund to August 28, 2020.
AGD Urges Congress and Administration to Create "Healthy Workplace" Tax Credit
AGD joined a coalition of stakeholders in sending letters to Administration officials and Congressional leadership that outline the importance of including a "healthy workplace" tax credit in the next COVID-19 relief package.
House Passes FY2021 Minibus Funding Package
On July 31, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass a second minibus FY2021 appropriations package that provided funding for Defense, Commerce-Justice-Science, Energy & Water Development, Financial Services & General Government, Labor-HHS-Education, and Transportation-HUD (H.R.7617).
AGD Joins Broad Coalition to Advocate for PPP Loan Forgiveness Deductibility
Over 180 organizations, including AGD, sent a letter to House Speaker Pelosi (D-CA) and Senate Majority Leader McConnell (R-KY) on August 4 that calls on them to ensure that expenses paid for with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans are eligible for tax-deductibility.
Administration Moves Ahead in the Face of Stalled COVID-19 Relief Negotiations
President Trump signed Executive Orders on August 8 that delay the collection of payroll taxes, enact eviction protections, extend enhanced unemployment benefits, and provide student loan repayment options.