Bill > H2172

This bill aims to improve pupil dental health in public schools. It requires parents or guardians to present certification that their child has received a dental screening within the previous 12 months upon entering kindergarten or within 30 days of the start of the school year. Parents or guardians may be excused from this requirement if the screening poses an undue financial burden or if they do not consent to a screening. Schools are required to notify parents about the importance of oral health and provide information on accessing affordable dental care. The Department of Public Health will develop a standardized notification form and collect annual reports from school districts on the number of pupils screened, those unable to complete screenings, and the oral health status of students. This data will be publicly available, with aggregate information shared with other agencies and organizations for research and analysis purposes.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H2172