Reps. Kelly, Simpson Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Dental Health

WASHINGTON – U.S. Reps. Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Mike Simpson (ID-02) introduced the bipartisan Action for Dental Health Act for reauthorization today. The legislation was originally approved by the Four Corners – the Democratic and Republican leaders in each chamber – in last year’s December spending bill.

The legislation will support organizations and strengthen existing resources that provide oral healthcare to underserved communities, including seniors, children and families living in rural and urban areas. By increasing access to preventative dental care, the bill also reduces the number of emergency room visits.

“Dental health is oftentimes an indication of overall health, which is why it’s critical that people have access to reliable oral healthcare,” said Rep. Kelly, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust. “I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort with my colleague, who’s also a dentist, for the third time to reduce healthcare costs for hardworking families.”

“Since its implementation, the Action for Dental Health Act has made a meaningful difference in expanding access to oral health care in communities across the United States,” said Rep. Simpson. “Reauthorizing this critical legislation is essential to breaking down barriers to oral care, promoting disease prevention, and improving oral health education. As co-chair of the Congressional Oral Health Caucus, I am proud to join Congresswoman Kelly in reintroducing this bipartisan bill and deeply appreciate her leadership on this issue. I look forward to getting this important bill across the finish line and sending it to President Trump's desk.”

The Action for Dental Health is endorsed by the American Dental Association.

“The Action for Dental Health Act is crucial for dental disease prevention, oral health education, workforce development and improved access to care. I want to thank Rep. Kelly and Rep. Simpson for their ongoing commitment to improving oral health,” said Brett H. Kessler, D.D.S., President of the American Dental Association. “Reauthorizing this vital program extends the important work of tackling the access challenges faced by many Americans while advancing the important goal of decreasing dental health disparities in our rural and underserved areas where better access to care is critical. The nation’s dentists are happy to support this important legislation to ensure there is sufficient dental workforce who are ready to meet this country’s oral health care needs.”