Health: screening; dental oral assessment program for certain children; extend sunset. Amends sec. 9316 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9316).
Impact
This bill could significantly impact the health and educational landscape in Michigan by ensuring that all children, regardless of their families' financial situations, have access to necessary dental health evaluations before enrolling in kindergarten or first grade. Importantly, this initiative intends to reduce barriers to school attendance related to dental health requirements by stating that children cannot be excluded from school for lack of a dental assessment. This provision aims to enhance overall children's health and educational outcomes.
Summary
House Bill 4591 proposes amendments to Michigan's Public Health Code concerning the establishment and maintenance of a dental oral assessment program for children. This program is specifically designed for children whose parents, guardians, or persons in loco parentis do not obtain dental assessments. The law mandates that by the 2021-2022 school year, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services set up and oversee this program, which will provide oral assessments through contracted government entities or personnel. These assessments aim to identify signs of dental issues early on and facilitate referrals for further care if necessary.
Contention
Notable points of contention around HB 4591 may arise from concerns about the program's funding and implementation. Critics might argue that establishing such a system could place an additional burden on government resources, particularly if the legislature does not allocate adequate funds for the program. Furthermore, reliance on contracted entities to provide dental assessments could raise issues regarding the quality of care and consistency across different regions of the state. Advocates will need to address these concerns to ensure smooth implementation and adherence to health standards.
Health: screening; dental oral assessment program for certain children; require department of health and human services to establish. Amends sec. 9316 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9316).
Health: screening; dental oral assessment program for certain children; require department of health and human services to establish. Amends sec. 9316 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.9316).
Health: immunizations; exemptions to immunization requirements; modify to require the use of forms created by the department. Amends sec. 9215 of 1978 of 368 (MCL 333.9215). TIE BAR WITH: HB 6206'24