California Assembly Bill AB341

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25
• Refer: 2/18/25
• Refer: 3/24/25
• Report Pass: 4/9/25
• Refer: 4/9/25

Caption

Oral Health for People with Disabilities Technical Assistance Center Program.

Impact

The bill recognizes that individuals with developmental disabilities often experience delays in dental care due to the necessity for sedation, which can lead to additional health complications including chronic dental illnesses. By focusing on empowering dental schools to develop community-based care that utilizes innovative practices, such as teledentistry, the legislation seeks to improve access to necessary dental services while also alleviating healthcare costs and risks associated with traditional sedation methods.

Summary

Assembly Bill 341, introduced by Assembly Member Arambula, aims to enhance dental care services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities through the establishment of the Oral Health for People with Disabilities Technical Assistance Center Program. This program will be administered by a public California dental school or college, which is mandated to contract with the State Department of Developmental Services by July 1, 2027. The program's goal is to minimize the reliance on sedation and general anesthesia for dental procedures, addressing significant barriers currently faced by this vulnerable population.

Contention

Key areas of contention include concerns over the implementation and training of dental care professionals involved in this program. The bill outlines a framework for collaborating with dental schools and regional centers but may encounter challenges related to funding, resource allocation, and ensuring that sufficient numbers of trained practitioners are available to effectively deliver services. There is also a recognition of necessary reforms in existing policies that may limit the effectiveness of new methodologies in treating dental care for people with disabilities.