3 things you missed in government this week
Tylenol, mental health care, defense bill
“Three Things You Missed in Government This Week” is designed to offer a way to stay informed on the topics of the week. These updates are meant to offer brief details on legislative or regulatory topics to keep dentists engaged and up to date. To explore the ADA’s latest advocacy efforts, more information is available at ADA.org/Advocacy.
1. The ADA is expressing support for peer-reviewed science following recent claims by the White House of a link between Tylenol and autism – a connection many experts emphasize is unsubstantiated. The Association said acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol and other common medications, is “well studied and proven to be safe for use in pregnancy” and encouraged dentists to tell patients to discuss options with their physician and dentist to determine what is the best treatment option available for their specific situation.
2. More than 2 million U.S. health care workers can now seek mental health care without fear of professional consequences, due to a national effort aimed at removing stigma and improving access to support. The Wellbeing First Champion Challenge, led by the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, has verified that 60 licensure boards and 1,850 hospitals, clinics and other care facilities have eliminated intrusive mental health questions from licensing and credentialing applications. Since last year the number of dental licensure boards recognized as Wellbeing First Champions has grown from one to five, now benefiting nearly 65,000 dental professionals. The ADA is among the national organizations supporting the coalition’s mission.
3. ADA leaders thanked Rep. Brian Babin, D.D.S., R-Texas, for introducing an amendment in the House-passed version of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2026. The amendment focuses on improving accreditation in military dental treatment facilities by requiring a report to Congress that must include exact data on the scope of accreditation for dental treatment facilities, determine any remaining barriers to full accreditation, identify the necessary resources to ensure compliance, estimate associated costs and provide recommendations for fulfilling the mandate. The ADA is now urging Senate leaders to include key oral health provisions in the final version of the legislation.
