H.R.2001 - To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize a grant program for addressing dental workforce needs. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2001 proposes to amend the Public Health Service Act by reauthorizing a grant program aimed at addressing dental workforce needs. Specifically, it seeks to extend funding for this program, increasing the annual allocation from $13,903,000 to $15,000,000. This funding would be available for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 10, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The intention is to ensure continued support for initiatives designed to bolster the dental workforce.
This reauthorization aims to maintain and potentially improve access to dental care by addressing shortages in the dental profession.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of H.R. 2001 would be the continuation of a grant program focused on dental workforce development. This would ensure that funding remains available to support initiatives aimed at recruiting and retaining dental professionals.
By increasing the authorized funding level, the bill could lead to expanded program activities and a greater impact on addressing dental workforce shortages. This could result in more dental professionals serving in underserved areas.
Ultimately, the bill aims to improve access to dental care for the American people, particularly in communities where there are shortages of dental professionals.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Access to Dental Care: By addressing dental workforce shortages, the bill can help ensure that more people have access to necessary dental services.
- Support for Underserved Communities: The grant program can be targeted to areas with the greatest need for dental professionals, helping to reduce health disparities.
- Economic Benefits for Dental Professionals: The program can provide financial assistance and other incentives to attract and retain dental professionals, boosting their economic prospects.
- Enhanced Public Health: By promoting preventive dental care, the bill can help improve the overall health and well-being of the population.
- Workforce Development: The bill supports the training and recruitment of dental professionals, contributing to a stronger and more skilled workforce.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Government Spending: The bill would authorize additional government spending, which could contribute to budget deficits if not offset by other savings.
- Potential for Inefficient Allocation of Funds: There is a risk that the grant program could be poorly managed or that funds could be allocated to ineffective programs.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses specifically on dental workforce needs and may not address other factors that contribute to limited access to dental care, such as affordability and insurance coverage.
- Dependence on Federal Funding: Reliance on federal grants may create instability if funding is reduced or eliminated in the future.
- Administrative Overhead: Managing the grant program will require administrative resources, which could divert funds from direct service delivery.
Constitutional Alignment
H.R. 2001 appears to align with the general welfare clause of the U.S. Constitution, as it aims to improve public health by addressing dental workforce shortages. The Constitution's preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare".
Congress has the power to enact legislation related to healthcare under the Commerce Clause and the Necessary and Proper Clause, as healthcare affects interstate commerce and is necessary for carrying out other enumerated powers.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).