New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08145

Introduced
5/1/25  

Caption

Authorizes the application of topical fluoride varnish to a child's teeth by a parent or legal guardian provided that such application is done under the direction and supervision of a licensed practitioner.

Impact

If enacted, A08145 could lead to a significant change in how children's dental care is approached in New York. By permitting parents to administer fluoride varnish treatments, the bill could lessen the barriers some families face in seeking professional dental care. This change may promote better dental health among children, particularly in underserved communities where access to dental practitioners is limited. However, the bill relies on effective communication between parents and healthcare providers regarding safety instructions and proper application techniques.

Summary

Bill A08145 proposes an amendment to the education law allowing parents or legal guardians to apply topical fluoride varnish to their children's teeth, provided that the application is done under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. This bill aims to empower parents with the ability to manage their children's dental health more directly, potentially increasing access to preventive dental care. The involvement of a licensed practitioner ensures that the application remains safe and compliant with established healthcare standards.

Contention

Despite its intent to enhance child health and parental autonomy, there may be concerns about the bill's implementation. Critics may argue about the adequacy of parental training and understanding of the proper application of fluoride varnish. There are potential risks involved if the varnish is not applied correctly. Ensuring that parents fully comprehend the safety instructions, as required by the bill, will be crucial to its success. Additionally, this shift could spark discussions about the appropriateness of delegating certain health responsibilities to parents versus the role of healthcare professionals.

Companion Bills

NY S06759

Same As Authorizes the application of topical fluoride varnish to a child's teeth by a parent or legal guardian provided that such application is done under the direction and supervision of a licensed practitioner.

Previously Filed As

NY A07402

Permits dental assistants and licensed practical nurses to perform the application of topical fluoride varnish.

NY S09308

Permits dental assistants and licensed practical nurses to perform the application of topical fluoride varnish.

NY A01488

Establishes procedures for the termination of parental rights upon the application of a parent or guardian.

NY S02466

Establishes procedures for the termination of parental rights upon the application of a parent or guardian.

NY A01211

Relates to notification of the national bone marrow program on non-driver ids and license applications and voter applications.

NY A02772

Requires certain data in reports by the commissioner of the office of temporary and disability assistance for the "COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program of 2021"; requires the inclusion of the breakdown of applications for each zip code including the total number of approved applications; the total number of denied applications; the total number of incomplete applications; and the total number of applications that are awaiting processing or are pending in such report; provides for application information that may be tracked.

NY S06112

Allows for the education department to provide registration applications to licensees for each profession by means other than mail; requires the state education department to mail applications prior to the end date of such registration period.

NY A07716

Allows for the education department to provide registration applications to licensees for each profession by means other than mail; requires the state education department to mail applications prior to the end date of such registration period.

NY A07951

Adds to the penalties for the underage use of cannabis the office of cannabis management contacting the person's parents and/or guardians and such person and their parents and/or guardians attending a cannabis diversion program.

NY S01653

Directs the licensing authority in each county to process firearms license applications for victims of domestic abuse who have been issued an order of protection within 14 days of receiving the application.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.