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AB 341

Oral Health for People with Disabilities Technical Assistance Center Program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joaquin Arambula

AB 341 improves dental care for Californians with disabilities by reducing sedation use, enhancing access, and training providers through a new technical assistance program.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 612, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 341

Summary of AB 341: Oral Health for People with Disabilities Technical Assistance Center Program

Bill Overview

Bill Number: AB 341
Introduced: January 28, 2025
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 612, Statutes of 2025
Vote Requirement: Majority
Fiscal Committee: Yes
Local Program: No

Purpose and Intent

AB 341 aims to enhance dental care services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in California. The bill seeks to reduce or eliminate the reliance on sedation and general anesthesia for dental treatments, which often leads to increased costs and longer wait times for this vulnerable population.

Key Provisions

  • Contracting Requirement: The State Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is mandated to contract with a public or private California dental school or college by July 1, 2027, to administer the Oral Health for People with Disabilities Technical Assistance Center Program.
  • Prioritization of Public Institutions: The DDS must prioritize contracting with public California dental schools or colleges.
  • Partnerships: The contracted dental school may partner with other public or private dental institutions, provided they meet specific criteria, including location and accreditation.
  • Program Goals: The program aims to:
    • Improve dental care services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
    • Reduce the need for sedation and general anesthesia in dental treatments.
    • Engage up to 21 regional centers to participate in the program.
  • Responsibilities of the Contracted School:
    • Provide training and support for regional center and oral health personnel.
    • Collect and analyze program data.
    • Establish community-based dental care systems.
    • Organize a statewide advisory committee and learning community.

Impact

  • Target Population: The bill primarily affects individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, who often face barriers to accessing dental care.
  • Healthcare Providers: Dental schools and regional centers will be involved in the implementation of the program, enhancing their capacity to serve this population.
  • Long-term Outcomes: By improving access to dental care and reducing reliance on sedation, the program aims to enhance overall oral health outcomes for individuals with disabilities, potentially decreasing associated chronic health conditions.

Procedural Aspects

  • The contract for the program will expire on June 30, 2032.
  • The DDS is required to submit annual reports to the Legislature detailing the program's data and outcomes.
  • The bill emphasizes the need for ongoing training and support for both dental and regional center personnel to ensure the program's effectiveness.

Conclusion

AB 341 represents a significant step towards improving oral health care for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in California. By focusing on innovative dental practices and community engagement, the bill aims to create a more accessible and effective dental care system for this underserved population.

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

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