In Massachusetts, a comprehensive health care reform and funding bill (S. 2202) passed the Senate in a 33-6 vote.  The bill contains provisions seeking to establish dental therapists in the state, and would allow them to practice under the general supervision of a dentist with whom they’ve signed a collaborative agreement. 

The bill will be considered by the Massachusetts House in January.

In Washington, the University of Washington School of Dentistry plans to close their Center for Pediatric Dentistry.  In response to a $36 million deficit faced by the School of Dentistry, the University had previously announced plans to suspend new admissions into the school’s residency programs for oral and maxillofacial surgery, as well as to end its hospital-based general practice residency programs. 

Michigan’s dental therapist bill, SB 541, is still pending before the Senate.  If you practice or live in Michigan, please take a moment to visit the AGD’s Action Center webpage and send a letter to your senator, urging them to oppose this bill.

If you would like more information on legislative matters in your state, or are interested in carrying out advocacy on AGD issues, please contact us at advocacy@agd.org or visit the AGD’s Advocacy webpage.