Inslee Signs Bill to Improve Dental Care for State Tribes

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Gov. Jay Inslee has signed a bill that seeks to improve oral health on reservations in Washington state.

The measure signed Wednesday is the first bill the governor has signed this legislative session. It allows tribes to use federal funding for dental therapists, who provide preventative care and procedures such as cleanings, fillings and oral exams.

Senate Bill 5079, sponsored by Democratic Sen. John McCoy of Tulalip, passed the House on an 80-18 vote and received unanimous approval in the Senate.

It will now become effective this summer on all tribal lands.