SB24-142 Summary

• Creates an oral health screening pilot program requiring the Department of Public Health and Environment to award at least five grants to screeners for conducting oral health screenings in kindergarten and third grade classrooms at selected schools statewide during the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years.

• Establishes requirements for oral health screeners, including professional credentials from the Division of Professions and Occupations, and mandates use of evidence-based screening tools to identify probable oral disease and risk factors in students.

• Requires parents or legal guardians receive written notice before screening and have the right to refuse participation; screeners must report results to parents and provide referrals for identified oral health concerns.

• Directs screeners to collect and report data by July 31, 2025 and 2026 on screening outcomes, efficacy, and best practices for potential statewide expansion to all kindergarten and third grade students.

• Appropriates $84,425 to the Department of Public Health and Environment for fiscal year 2024-25 to implement the pilot program, and requires the Department of Education to develop a statewide implementation plan by December 1, 2027.