March/April 2023 | Page 10

Government Relations

Help PDA Remain the Trusted Voice of Dentistry in PA !

Keep this in mind now that a new legislative session is underway in Pennsylvania :

• We have to educate a new Governor ( and his staff ) on dental issues .

• We have 55 new legislators in the General Assembly who also need to be educated on dental issues .

• There are new leaders in the House and Senate who will decide whether PDA ’ s bills move this session .

• PDA is lobbying for significant dental insurance reforms , all of which the insurance industry strongly opposes with manpower and money .

• A small percentage of PDA members contribute to PADPAC .

• PDA ’ s roster of at least one member to serve as a contact dentist ( members we rely on to contact legislators on PDA issues ) for each legislator is incomplete .

Here ’ s how YOU can help :

Join our Grassroots Network ! Join PDA ’ s network of contact dentists so that we can strengthen our relationships with legislators and ensure that they rely on PDA as the trusted source on dental issues and that they consult with you before voting on dental issues !

A strong grassroots network is essential for securing the political clout necessary for dentists ’ voices to be heard . Any successes that PDA and ADA have in the legislative arena are directly attributable to the grassroots lobbying efforts of members .

PDA contact dentists act as liaisons between PDA and state legislators by developing and maintaining a personal relationship with representatives in their district and relaying PDA ’ s positions on legislation .

Make a 2023 PADPAC Contribution ! The insurance industry has deep pockets , enough to send lobbyists to every fundraiser and legislative event in town , and contribute to many political campaigns . We need to strengthen our PAC so that we are able to attend these events , build relationships with legislators and help support those who support dentistry . A strong PAC equates to a strong presence in Harrisburg so that policymakers know that PDA is the trusted voice of dentistry .

Please consider making a donation . We appreciate any amount or consider joining at one of these club levels :

Payment options include one lump sum or pledging an amount and paying in installments . Donate online at www . padental . org / PADAPC or contact John Basial at ( 717 ) 234-5941 or jpb @ padental . org .

8 MARCH / APRIL 2023 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL