H.R. 10676
Foster Youth Dental Act of 2026
Summary:
• The "Foster Youth Dental Act of 2026" extends Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) services under Medicaid to current and former foster youth up to age 26 (rather than age 21), with specific inclusion of dental services information
• The bill requires Medicaid payment rates for dental services provided to eligible foster youth under 26 to be no less than the average contracted rate paid by private health insurance over the prior 5-year period, with the federal government covering 100% of the additional costs above states' January 1, 2026 payment rates
• States must establish outreach and enrollment programs—within 6 months of enactment—to enroll eligible former foster youth in Medicaid and to encourage dentists to participate as Medicaid providers
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• The bill requires Medicaid payment rates for dental services provided to eligible foster youth under 26 to be no less than the average contracted rate paid by private health insurance over the prior 5-year period, with the federal government covering 100% of the additional costs above states' January 1, 2026 payment rates
• States must establish outreach and enrollment programs—within 6 months of enactment—to enroll eligible former foster youth in Medicaid and to encourage dentists to participate as Medicaid providers
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