Legislation would provide access to hundreds of thousands of underserved Wisconsinites

Badger Institute commends Senate passage of dental therapy bill


** Legislation would provide access to hundreds of thousands of underserved Wisconsinites
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CONTACT: Policy Analyst Julie Grace: [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or 330-410-6212

The Wisconsin State Senate today unanimously approved Senate Bill 181 ([link removed]) , which would allow for dental therapists to practice in Wisconsin. The Badger Institute commends the Senate for passing this important legislation and urges the State Assembly to advance its version of the bill.

“This vote offers hope to Wisconsin families that struggle with access to basic oral care,” said Badger Institute President Mike Nichols. “Allowing dental therapists to practice here would benefit thousands of families in underserved areas. Given the broad, bipartisan support for this issue, we hope the Assembly will quickly follow suit.”

The legislation now awaits a hearing in the State Assembly.

Dental therapists are mid-level dental professionals who perform preventative and restorative procedures such as simple extractions and fillings under the supervision of a dentist. Dental therapists are now authorized to practice in 12 states, including neighboring Minnesota, and, more recently, Michigan. Many other states are actively exploring authorizing dental therapy.

SB 181 would require dental therapists to practice in a health provider shortage area or in an area made up of at least 50% of underserved populations such as those on Medicaid, patients in long-term care facilities, veterans or the uninsured.

Read more about the Badger Institute’s
work ([link removed]) on dental therapy and our latest article ([link removed]) , which highlights the impact dental therapists have had after practicing in Minnesota for a decade.
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Our work in advancing free markets, opportunity and prosperity in the Badger State is only made possible by the generous donations of our supporters. The Badger Institute is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. We do not accept any government funding.

We gratefully accept your support at any level. Donate online ([link removed]) or contact Director of Development Angela Smith at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or 414-254-6440.

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We believe competitive free markets, limited government, private initiative and personal responsibility are essential to our democratic way of life. The Badger Institute is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and does not receive government funding. Our work is funded solely through tax-deductible gifts from foundations, companies and individuals. We appreciate your support.
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