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HB 771

Student Health - Program for Student Dental Health - Established

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andrea Harrison

Maryland establishes student dental health program to provide oral healthcare services to school-age children through school-based facilities.

Hearing 3/27 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 771

Legislative bill overview

HB 771 establishes a new program in Maryland to provide dental health services to students, addressing gaps in oral healthcare access among school-age populations. The bill has passed second reading with amendments and is currently scheduled for a committee hearing on March 27, 2025. The exact scope of services, funding mechanism, and implementation details are being refined through the legislative process.

Why is this important

Dental care is often unaffordable or unavailable for low-income families, leading to untreated tooth decay and infections that can affect academic performance and overall health. School-based dental programs can reduce these disparities by providing preventive care and early treatment directly to students who might otherwise go without. This addresses a documented public health gap while potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and cost: The bill's fiscal impact remains unclear; concerns may arise over whether this requires new state funding, reallocation of existing education budgets, or grants from other sources
  • Scope of services: Questions about what procedures are covered (cleanings/exams only vs. fillings/extractions) and whether it creates expectations the state cannot sustain
  • Implementation logistics: Schools must provide space, staff training, and infection control—details on who bears these operational burdens and how districts with limited resources will participate

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

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