DelawareSB 191153rd General Assembly (2024–2026)Senate

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 16 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE DELAWARE INSTITUTE FOR DENTAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH.

Sponsored By: Ray Seigfried (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

Dentist training for diverse patient needs

The dental education Board's purposes now include supporting programs that teach current dentists to care for patients with disabilities. The Board must also consider supporting training on caring for patients with cultural differences. The law does not guarantee specific training or set a funding amount.

New licensing paths for underserved-area dentists

The dental education Board must work with the State Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene to develop alternative licensing programs. These programs encourage and allow dentists to practice in underserved areas recognized by the Delaware Health Care Commission. They can replace hospital-based residency training as a licensing condition and may include recognition of other states' licenses. The law sets no program start date or funding amount.

Dental board members need diversity training

People must complete diversity training before joining the Delaware Institute for Dental Education and Research Board. Training covers diversity in healthcare and how diversity in dentistry relates to gaps in care, care delivery, and access.

Broader dental training with program limits

The Delaware Institute for Dental Education and Research Board promotes dental hygiene and dental assisting education at all levels. Its general dental residency support focuses on Delaware hospitals accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, with comprehensive postgraduate training under Chapter 11 of Title 24. Its support purpose also covers general and specialty dental programs recognized by the American Dental Association. The Board must plan better dental education opportunities for Delaware residents, including considering Temple University-style partnerships with similar institutions based on need. The law sets no funding amount and guarantees no admission or individual benefit.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Ray Seigfried
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

Frank Burns
Democratic • House
Nnamdi O. Chukwuocha
Democratic • House
Kendra Johnson
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 56 • No: 1

House vote • 3/12/2026

Passed (SM required)

Yes: 35 • No: 1

Senate vote • 1/14/2026