Unfortunately, Assembly Bill 368 (AB 368) on non-dentist owned dental practices did not pass this legislative session.
To fall short of the finish line is disappointing, but it is important to not forget the positives that resulted during this effort. AB 368 was not expected to see the light of day in the Assembly, yet the Wisconsin Dental Association was able to get it passed out of that chamber on a voice vote and with no opposition on the Assembly floor. There was a major effort to even prevent it from receiving a public hearing in the Senate and we were able to make that happen as well.
Passing one house leaves AB 368 in a stronger position for the next session and it is not uncommon for bills to take several sessions before they ultimately pass the full Legislature and reach the Governor’s desk.
During its final week, the Assembly passed and sent 300+ bills to the Senate. Time ran out and a majority of those bills will be left on the cutting room floor. AB 368 was in that group.
As discussed during the Legislative Advocacy Committee meeting, it is important take a step back and let time pass before regrouping to figure out what our future plan will be.
Thank you to all members who testified, supported the WDA lobby team and/or contacted their legislators.
Please contact Legislative Advocacy Committee Chair, Dr. Steve Stoll, with questions at 920-725-4307 or [email protected].
