Representative Jervonte Edmonds (D-West Palm Beach) has officially filed HB 253 for the 2026 Legislative Session, proposing the creation of a statewide Veterans Dental Care Program to ensure Florida’s honorably discharged veterans have access to comprehensive and affordable dental services.
HB 253 establishes the program within the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, offering a full range of preventive, restorative, endodontic, and prosthodontic care to eligible veterans. Services would include routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, tooth extractions, root canals, bridges, dentures, and dental implants.
Under the bill, the Department of Veterans may deliver these services through community health centers, nonprofit dental clinics, private providers, accredited dental schools, and mobile dental units to reach rural and underserved communities. Funding for the program would be subject to legislative appropriation, and the Department would be authorized to pursue federal matching funds, private donations, and grants to support implementation.
Beginning January 1, 2o27, the Department of Veterans would report annually to the Governor and Legislature on program performance, including the number of veterans served, services provided, program expenditures, funding sources, and recommendations for improvement.
“Too many veterans in our state go without the dental care they need because of cost or lack of access,” said Representative Edmonds in a press statement. “HB 253 recognizes that dental health is essential health, and our veterans deserve dignity, comfort, and care after sacrificing so much for our country.”
HB 253 would take effect July 1, 2026, pending passage.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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