Bill > HB771

This bill establishes a comprehensive program for student dental health in Maryland, requiring the Maryland Department of Health to develop and implement several key initiatives. The program will support and facilitate oral health education in every county, including disease prevention and dental health promotion, and develop a process to monitor the implementation of these educational efforts. The Department must help county school boards publish dental health information on local school system websites and in student handbooks. Starting in the 2027-2028 school year, students in public elementary and secondary schools will be required to submit a dental health certificate. The program will also provide resources for students and parents, such as information on dental insurance, lists of pediatric dentists across different regions of the state, and educational materials about the importance of dental health to overall well-being. Additionally, the Department is required to submit a summary of dental health information to the Governor and General Assembly every five years. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving schools and the Department time to prepare for the new requirements.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0771?ys=2025RS