From the press release:

A diverse group of dental health and state leaders from across Minnesota celebrated a historic package of dental legislation passed with bipartisan support in 2021 that takes steps to bridge Minnesota’s longstanding dental divide. Acknowledging that oral health and overall health are inextricably linked, immediate and ongoing work has been set in motion to remedy Minnesota’s dental health inequities not fully addressed in 30 years. 

The virtual event included Sen. Michelle Benson (R-Ham Lake), Representative Tina Liebling (DFLRochester), Department of Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead, Dr. Sheila Riggs of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, and others who spoke from their experience about what the legislative package means to Minnesota. 

This legislation addresses long held concern that the rates paid to dentists are too low and too varied. Over 4 years, $61M will be used to increase the rates, which are currently from 1989, and reduce variation in what dentists are paid. Simplifying reimbursement is part of the legislature’s call for transparency and accountability in public programs.

This press release is no longer available to view in full. The original was previously located here.

Access the White Paper that outlined these legislative proposals and facilitated their passage.

Learn more at the Minnesota Oral Health Coalition website.