California 2017-2018 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB224

Introduced
1/26/17  
Refer
3/23/17  
Refer
3/23/17  
Report Pass
3/27/17  
Refer
3/28/17  
Refer
3/28/17  
Report Pass
4/20/17  
Refer
4/24/17  
Refer
4/24/17  
Report Pass
5/1/17  
Report Pass
5/1/17  
Refer
5/3/17  
Refer
5/3/17  
Report Pass
5/17/17  
Refer
5/18/17  
Refer
5/18/17  
Refer
5/24/17  
Refer
5/24/17  
Report Pass
5/26/17  
Report Pass
5/26/17  
Engrossed
5/31/17  
Refer
6/1/17  
Refer
6/1/17  
Refer
6/14/17  
Report Pass
8/22/18  
Report Pass
8/22/18  
Refer
8/22/18  
Refer
8/23/18  

Caption

California Housing Finance Agency: financing agreements: affordable rental housing for school employees.

Impact

The bill modifies existing regulations by redefining terms like 'moderate sedation' and introduces additional operational guidelines that require dentists to have specific licenses and training. Notably, for procedures performed on children under 7, the bill stipulates that a dedicated monitor with advanced life support training must be present. This enhanced regulatory approach is intended to safeguard young patients during dental surgeries, potentially reducing risks associated with sedation in children. Furthermore, AB224 authorizes the California Housing Finance Agency to engage in financing agreements for the development of affordable rental housing for school employees, addressing the growing housing challenges faced by educators.

Summary

Assembly Bill 224, introduced by Assembly Member Thurmond, encompasses two main areas: amendments to the Dental Practice Act related to anesthesia and sedation practices in dentistry, and provisions aimed at improving affordable housing for school district employees, particularly teachers. The bill aims to ensure that procedures involving sedation, especially for children under 13 years of age, adhere to stringent safety regulations and licensing requirements. Specifically, it mandates that dentists possess advanced training and certifications before administering certain types of sedation, offering a more protective framework for vulnerable populations during dental procedures.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB224 has been largely supportive, especially among advocates for children's safety in medical procedures and those concerned with teacher housing issues. Proponents argue that the safety measures for dentists reflect a necessary evolution in dental practices, emphasizing patient welfare. Conversely, some skepticism arises regarding the feasibility of increased regulatory burdens on dental practitioners and the long-term impact on children's access to dental care. The affordable housing component has generally been seen as a critical step in improving the living conditions of school employees, though concerns about budget allocations and implementation timelines remain.

Contention

A significant point of contention in AB224 centers on the balance between enhancing safety protocols and maintaining accessibility to dental care for young patients. Critics voice concern about the potential for increased costs and limitations on service availability in the dental field, fearing that the new regulations may disproportionately impact practitioners in lower-income areas. Additionally, discussions about the housing provisions raise questions about funding sources and the effectiveness of the California Housing Finance Agency in addressing the urgent housing crisis faced by school district employees.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB901

Affordable housing financing districts.

CA AB2674

The California Affordable and Foster Youth Housing Finance Innovation Act.

CA AB2638

Housing programs: financing.

CA AB515

Housing programs: financing.

CA ACA10

Local government financing: affordable housing and public infrastructure: voter approval.

CA AB1607

Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency.

CA ACA1

Local government financing: affordable housing and public infrastructure: voter approval.

CA AB1449

Affordable housing: California Environmental Quality Act: exemption.

CA AB2969

California Housing Finance Agency: accessory dwelling units.

CA AB519

Affordable Housing Finance Workgroup: affordable housing: consolidated application and coordinated review process.

Similar Bills

CA AB2643

Dentistry: general anesthesia: health care coverage.

CA SB501

Dentistry: anesthesia and sedation: report.

CA AB1622

Family physicians.

CA AB2496

Foster family agencies and noncustodial adoption agencies.

CA SB1453

Dentistry.