If enacted, SB2012 will significantly alter state regulations concerning Medicare, ensuring that more comprehensive dental services are available under this federal healthcare program. This expansion has the potential to improve oral health outcomes for older adults, who are often at higher risk for dental issues yet face barriers to accessing necessary care. Additionally, the bill also introduces an increased federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for states that provide cost-sharing for these dental services, thereby incentivizing states to enhance their Medicaid programs in alignment with the bill’s provisions.
Summary
SB2012, known as the Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023, aims to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act by expanding Medicare coverage to include dental services. This bill seeks to facilitate access to essential dental and oral health services for Medicare beneficiaries, which are crucial for preventing disease and promoting overall health. By allowing coverage for services such as routine cleanings, exams, fillings, extractions, major dental procedures, and emergency dental care, it addresses a significant gap in the current Medicare program where dental care is generally excluded.
Contention
While the bill enjoys support from various health advocates and organizations that argue for improved access to dental care, there may be contention surrounding its funding and implementation. Concerns have been raised regarding the cost implications for the Medicare program and potential resistance from lawmakers worried about expanding federal healthcare expenditures. Furthermore, the bill’s provisions entrust the Secretary of Health and Human Services with significant authority to determine the specifics of what dental services will be covered, which might lead to debates over patient access and care standards.
Medicare Dental, Vision, and Hearing Benefit Act of 2023 This bill provides for Medicare coverage of dental, vision, and hearing care. Coverage includes (1) routine dental cleanings and exams, basic and major dental services, emergency dental care, and dentures; (2) routine eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses; and (3) routine hearing exams, hearing aids, and exams for hearing aids. With respect to such care, the bill establishes special payment rules, limitations, and coinsurance requirements.
Legal Workforce Act This bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to create an electronic employment eligibility confirmation system modeled after and to replace the E-Verify system, which allows employers and recruiters to verify the immigration status of individuals. The bill also mandates the use of such a system, where currently only some employers, such as those with federal contracts, are required to use E-Verify. The bill specifies documents that can establish an individual's identity and employment authorization. During the period starting when a job offer is made until three business days after hiring, the individual must attest to his or her employment authorization, and the employer or recruiter must attest that it has examined the individual's required documents. Employers shall reverify certain types of employees who were not previously verified using E-verify. The Social Security Administration shall notify employees if their Social Security number has been used multiple times in an unusual manner. DHS shall establish programs for blocking and suspending misused numbers. Employers that are required to use the verification system shall not be liable for any employment-related action based on a good-faith reliance on the information from the system. The bill establishes a phased-in participation deadline for different categories of employers, including agricultural employers. The bill increases civil penalties related to hiring individuals without work authorization. It also preempts state laws relating to hiring and employment eligibility verification, but states may use their authority of business licensing to penalize employers for failing to comply with the bill's provisions.