Here are six federal and state bills being considered by legislators to improve dental care access, reform dental insurance, increase private equity oversight and more:
1. A bill was introduced in California that would prevent private equity groups and hedge funds from interfering with the healthcare decisions of dentists.
2. The North Dakota Legislature is considering two bills that aim to increase dental care access for low-income and under-represented populations in the state.
3. The Oral Health Products Inclusion Act was introduced Feb. 11 to increase access to oral care items that can be purchased with flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
4. Rep. Julia Brownley reintroduced a bill that would expand dental care eligibility for veterans.
5. The Indiana House of Representatives approved a bill that outlines the framework for the state to join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
6. Washington legislators are considering a bill that would impose more requirements for dental insurers in the state.