Legislature(2009 - 2010)
2009-02-16 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2009-02-16 House Journal Page 0260 HB 135 HOUSE BILL NO. 135 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: 2009-02-16 House Journal Page 0261 "An Act providing for an effective date by delaying the effective date of the change of coverage of adult dental services under Medicaid; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Health & Social Services and Finance Committees. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Fiscal, Dept. of Health & Social Services The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 23, 2009, follows: "Dear Speaker Chenault: Under the authority of art. III, sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill extending the termination date for enhanced adult dental services under Medicaid, for five years. Historically, adults enrolled in Medicaid were only eligible for dental care that addressed immediate relief of pain and acute infection, which often resulted in tooth extractions. In 2006, the Legislature authorized an enhanced program, which provides preventative and restorative services to needy eligible adults under the Medicaid program. This bill would continue this enhanced program for an additional five years. The Department of Health and Social Services reports that the program has provided access to essential dental services to needy vulnerable Alaskan adults who otherwise may not have access to these services. Coverage of routine dental care may reduce complications of pregnancy, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Over the long-term the enhanced dental services offer opportunities for cost-savings as the services should result in decreased need for emergent dental care, including cases of dental infection that require treatment in hospital emergency rooms. Additionally, denture services and restoration of decayed teeth have assisted some adult Medicaid recipients with finding jobs or job advancement opportunities. This provides even more significant cost- 2009-02-16 House Journal Page 0262 savings opportunities to the state and to Alaska's society as a whole, as some indigent Alaskans become able to transition to greater financial independence. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Sarah Palin Governor"