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S 5339

Provides for dentist loan repayment and practice support

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pat Fahy

S 5339 - Dentist Loan Repayment and Practice Support OverviewBill Number: S 5339 Title: Provides for dentist loan repayment and practice supportStatus: REFERRED TO HEALTHIntroduce

REFERRED TO HEALTH
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Bill Summary · S 5339

S 5339 - Dentist Loan Repayment and Practice Support

Overview

Bill Number: S 5339
Title: Provides for dentist loan repayment and practice support
Status: REFERRED TO HEALTH
Introduced: February 20, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to address the shortage of dentists, particularly in underserved and rural areas, by providing loan repayment assistance and practice support for eligible dentists. The goal is to incentivize more dentists to establish their practices in communities with limited access to dental care.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a Dentist Loan Repayment Program to provide up to $100,000 in student loan repayment assistance for dentists who commit to practicing in underserved areas for a minimum of 5 years.
  • Creates a Dental Practice Support Grant Program to provide funding for new dentists to cover startup costs, equipment purchases, and other expenses associated with establishing a dental practice in an underserved area.
  • Authorizes $50 million in annual appropriations to fund the loan repayment and practice support programs.
  • Requires the Department of Health to develop eligibility criteria, application processes, and program administration guidelines for both initiatives.
  • Directs the Department to prioritize applications from dentists committed to practicing in rural, low-income, or other high-need communities.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Dentists: The bill would provide significant financial assistance to help new dentists establish their practices in underserved areas, reducing barriers to entry and incentivizing them to serve these communities.
  • Underserved communities: Increased access to dental care in areas that currently have shortages of dentists, improving overall oral health outcomes for residents.
  • State and local governments: The programs could help attract and retain dentists in underserved areas, reducing the burden on public health systems and improving community well-being.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Health for consideration. If passed by the committee, it would then move to the full Senate for a vote. If approved by the Senate, it would then proceed to the House of Representatives for further review and voting. The timeline for the bill's progression is uncertain, as it depends on the committee's schedule and the broader legislative agenda.

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

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