TDA Legislative Recap 2025
During the 2025 Legislative Session, the Tennessee Dental Association continued its mission to advocate for the dental profession and protect the oral health of the public. From TennCare provider reimbursement to community water fluoridation, TDA worked to advance policies that support dental professionals and improve access to quality oral health care for all Tennesseans. Below are highlights of key issues TDA worked on this session:
TennCare Rate Increase for Pediatric Dental Providers
TDA successfully lobbied for a significant increase in provider reimbursement rates within TennCare’s pediatric dental program. While the Governor’s original budget proposed $3.2 million in state funding to be split across several programs, lawmakers approved a budget amendment that allocated $4 million exclusively for TennCare pediatric dental rate increases. The total investment rose to $7 million when combined with existing budget dollars. The Bureau of TennCare will receive an additional $19.3 million in recurring funding for TennCare dental services. This represents an approximate 12 percent increase and supports pediatric dental care as well as services under the 1915(c) waiver and ECF Choices programs.
Improving provider reimbursement helps ensure access to care for children covered by TennCare, especially in underserved areas. TDA’s advocacy was instrumental in securing this funding. We will continue to lobby for rate increases for all TennCare dental providers, as current reimbursement levels remain well below the averages of neighboring states.
Defeating the Statewide Fluoride Ban – HB 897 / SB 1141
TDA strongly opposed legislation that sought to ban fluoride in public water systems across Tennessee. The bill would have tied the hands of water operators and ultimately reduced fluoridation to below optimal levels, putting the oral health of countless Tennesseans at risk.
Thanks to a strong grassroots response, including over 570 emails, numerous phone calls, and testimony from TDA member Dr. Leon Stanislav, the bill failed in the Senate Energy, Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. Lawmakers cited TDA members’ messages during the hearing, reinforcing the power of our collective voice.
TDA remains committed to defending community water fluoridation and anticipates similar legislation returning in future years.
Second Annual Tennessee Dentists’ Day on the Hill – March 12, 2025
More than 20 TDA members from across the state gathered in Nashville for the second annual Tennessee Dentists’ Day on the Hill. The event gave members an opportunity to meet directly with lawmakers and advocate for two of TDA’s top priorities: increased TennCare dental reimbursement and protection of community water fluoridation.
The day began with breakfast for legislators and staff, followed by coordinated office visits where members delivered educational materials and shared personal stories about the impact of these issues. TDA also arranged meetings with key legislators involved in the fluoride legislation to reinforce the dental community’s opposition before the committee vote.
This event continues to grow in momentum and visibility. Member participation is critical to our success in the Capitol.
Volunteer as a Legislative Contact Dentist
Building personal relationships with lawmakers is vital to protect and promote dentistry. We aim to pair each state legislator with one or more dedicated TDA legislative contact dentists.
As a contact dentist, you play a pivotal role in educating and advocating for dentistry. Besides offering insights on key issues, you are called upon to explain dental profession concerns and the impact of legislation to lawmakers. To participate as a legislative contact dentist, please complete the form linked below.