ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — State Representative Jervonte Edmonds (D-West Palm Beach) has filed HB 253 for the 2026 Legislative Session, proposing the creation of a statewide Veterans Dental Care Program to expand affordable and comprehensive dental care for honorably discharged veterans across Florida.
The bill directs the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs to establish and administer the program, offering a wide range of preventive, restorative, endodontic and prosthodontic services. Covered care would include routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, root canals, bridges, dentures and dental implants.
Expanded Dental Care Through Statewide Partnerships
Under HB 253, the Department may partner with community health centers, nonprofit dental clinics, private dental providers, accredited dental schools and mobile dental units. These partnerships aim to increase access in rural and underserved areas where veterans often face the greatest barriers to care.
Program funding would depend on annual legislative appropriations. The Department would also be authorized to seek federal matching funds, grants and private donations to support statewide implementation.
Accountability and Annual Reporting Requirements
Beginning January 1, 2027, the Department would submit an annual report to the Governor, Senate President and House Speaker detailing the number of veterans served, services provided, total expenditures, funding sources and recommendations for program improvements.
Lawmaker Says Veterans Deserve “Dignity, Comfort and Care”
“Too many veterans in our state go without the dental care they need because of cost or lack of access,” Rep. Edmonds said. “HB 253 recognizes that dental health is essential health, and our veterans deserve dignity, comfort and care after sacrificing so much for our country.”
If approved by the Legislature, HB 253 would take effect July 1, 2026.
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