Government Relations
2024-26 Legislative Session Agenda
What are our plans for the next legislative session ? The Board of Trustees approved the Government Relations Committee ’ s recommendations to focus our agenda almost exclusively on dental insurance reforms . This includes :
1 . Credentialing reforms 2 . Network leasing notification to providers 3 . Dental Loss Ratio 4 . Medicaid funding / fee increases
PDA ’ s volunteer leaders are preparing for the new legislative session by consulting with our lobbyists and staff on the political landscape after the general election and potential strategies for lobbying all or some of these issues discussed . Stay tuned for more information on how you can help us achieve more victories in 2025 !
Legislative Victory
Governor Shapiro Holds Ceremonial Signing of HB 1664
PDA recently had a well-deserved moment in the spotlight as Gov . Josh Shapiro held a ceremonial signing of HB 1664 , our Virtual Credit Card legislation , on October 22 .
Rep . Greg Scott , prime sponsor of the bill , was pleased to see PDA ’ s efforts pay off .
“ After months of hard work and collaboration , I ’ m thrilled to see HB1664 officially become law ,” Scott said . “ This bill will empower dental offices and other medical facilities across Pennsylvania to operate with greater flexibility , ensuring they can focus on providing top-notch care to their patients without the added stress of limited payment methods .”
He also said passage of HB 1664 marks a significant step forward in ensuring that Pennsylvania ’ s medical and dental practices are treated fairly by insurers , granting them the ability to opt into payment systems that align with the needs of their office . This will help streamline administrative processes and reduce financial burdens on practices .
Dr . Darleen Oleski , PDA ’ s Government Relations Committee chair , said that “ passing virtual credit card legislation enhances transparency and gives dentists the ability to make informed decisions about which payment options work best for their practice , while helping to keep dental care affordable for patients . PDA is grateful for the opportunity to work with Representative Scott and his team on this important insurance reform bill .”
You , our PDA members , identify Dental Insurance Reform issues as our top legislative priority , and we delivered . HB 1664 was officially signed into law on July 15 .
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2024 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 9