WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson applauded the passage of H.R. 2001 – the reauthorization of the Action for Dental Health Act. Originally passed and signed into law in 2018, this bipartisan bill will continue support to organizations that provide oral health care to underserved populations, especially seniors and children living in rural communities, through Fiscal Year 2030. The Action for Dental Health Act is co-authored by Rep. Simpson and Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL).

“As a former dentist in Blackfoot, Idaho, I have seen firsthand the value of good oral health and the consequences of neglect,” said Rep. Simpson, co-author of this bill. “Since its implementation in 2018, the Action for Dental Health Act has improved dental care in communities across the country. Reauthorizing this legislation is critical to address the dental workforce needs and improve access to care for patients. As co-chair of the Congressional Oral Health Caucus, I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Kelly once again to see the House of Representatives pass this bipartisan bill, and I look forward to sending it to President Trump's desk.”

“Oral health care is a critical part of our overall health, and preventative dental care can reduce costs for families and improve overall well-being," Rep. Kelly said. "By reauthorizing this bipartisan program that connects people with the care they need, this legislation will help prevent serious oral health problems before they start. I'm proud to work alongside Congressman Simpson, a former dentist, to advance this reauthorization and to my House colleagues for supporting this important bill.”

 

Congressman Simpson’s floor remarks are available here. The full text of the bill is available here.