Health Care Shortage Solution: General Dentists General dentists may help solve America’s health care shortage crisis thanks to a bill introduced this week to Congress. The bill authorizes $35 million toward a scholarship program for each fiscal year between 2009 and 2014 for graduates who serve full-time in underserved areas. Read more about this legislation here.   General Dentists’ Eyes, Ears, and Voices Ohio and Maine have legislative and regulatory activity that will affect general dentistry. Read how their actions may affect your practice.   AGD Supports National Facial Protection Month The AGD signed on to a dental coalition letter in support of a resolution expressing congressional support of National Facial Protection Month (HR 1062). Read more about this proposal here.   Dental Care for Veterans (HR 5595) Veterans may get more access to oral health care due to a bill requiring the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide dental care to veterans. Read more about this legislation here.

Constituent Leader Tip:  Host a SmileLine Earn added media attention at your next annual meeting or constituent event by hosting a constituent SmileLine. During the event, volunteer member dentists answer incoming calls from the public about oral health issues ranging from bleaching to orthodontics to proper care of a denture. SmileLine events typically earn constituents a great deal of media attention, so contact the AGD Public Relations Department today to learn more.    Tax Tip: AGD Group Exemption U.S. constituents and regions can file under the AGD Group Exemption with the IRS in May. AGD group exemption covers a constituent or region under the umbrella of the AGD with respect to the constituent/region’s tax-exempt status. However, this exemption does not eliminate the constituent/region’s need to file a Form 990 or 990-N with the IRS.   Help New Members Thank you for your new member recruitment efforts—we couldn’t do it without you! Please be sure to include all the information with new member applications so that they have instant access to AGD benefits.   General Dentists’ Eyes, Ears, and Voices New York, Maryland, and Minnesota all have legislative and regulatory activity that will affect general dentistry. Read how their actions may affect your practice.