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H 1179

An Act increasing access to universal dental care

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Carlos González

Massachusetts bill expands dental coverage through universal access program, requiring funding and provider capacity assessment.

Hearing scheduled for 10/27/2025 from 10:30 AM-04:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium
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Bill Summary · H 1179

Legislative bill overview

H 1179 proposes to expand dental care access in Massachusetts through a universal coverage program. The bill was introduced by Rep. Carlos González and has been referred to the Financial Services Committee for review. A hearing is scheduled for October 27, 2025.

Why this is important

Dental care access remains a significant gap in healthcare coverage, with many low-income and uninsured Massachusetts residents unable to afford preventive and treatment services. Expanding coverage could reduce emergency dental visits, improve overall health outcomes, and address equity disparities in oral health. The policy also carries substantial budgetary implications requiring careful evaluation.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: How the universal program would be financed (taxes, premiums, general revenue) and whether costs would be passed to employers, individuals, or the state
  • Provider capacity: Whether Massachusetts has sufficient dentists and dental infrastructure to serve all residents under a universal system, potentially affecting wait times and care quality
  • Program scope: Disagreement over which services would be covered (preventive only, restorative, orthodontics) and eligibility requirements, balancing comprehensiveness against cost

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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