The 2021 Indiana General Assembly is already into its third week. Below is a brief summary of dental-related legislation.
SB 03
Last week IDA Director of Government Affairs Shane Springer and IDA Member Dr. Shaun Matthews testified in front of the Senate Health and Provider Services Committee, speaking in support of SB 03. The bill deals with various telehealth matters, including confirming that teledentistry is allowed for dentists and hygienists. The bill is still in committee, but it has received broad support from organizations across the state.
HB 1079
This IDA bill, submitted by IDA member Rep. Denny Zent, updates the definition of dentistry and provides that a dentist may administer an immunization.
The bill also provides that a health insurance plan may not require a dental provider to accept payment via virtual credit card, along with other payment stipulations.
COVID Liability Legislation
Two versions of the COVID liability bill (SB 1 and HB 1002) are making their way through their respective houses. Both versions of the bill provide civil immunity for damages resulting from exposure of an individual to COVID-19 in various circumstances.
SB 330
SB 330, introduced last week, calls for the licensing of dental therapists and advanced dental therapists. The IDA is already working to stop this bill and may call on you and your colleagues for assistance.
HB 1021
This proposed program bill, submitted by Rep. Ethan Manning, establishes the health workforce student loan repayment program, the health workforce council, and the health workforce student loan repayment program fund for the purpose of providing funds to repay outstanding student loans of certain health providers who meet the program requirements.
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