ISDA Dental Day at the Capitol 2026 Recap
On February 19, 2026, ISDA members were seen and heard at the Idaho State Capitol for our inaugural Dental Day at the Capitol. With 65 participants engaging throughout the day and evening, the event successfully advanced relationship-building with lawmakers and reinforced dentistry's role in shaping sound oral health policy for Idaho patients.
Pictured - Southeast Idaho Dental Society's Dr. Devin Belnap in the House.
Event at a Glance
65 total participants
10 dentists present at the Capitol
Multiple meetings held with legislators
Engagement with 16 Representatives and 7 Senators
20 additional stakeholders and guests were involved throughout the day
Key Advocacy Moments
A highlight of the day was the printing and announcement of the Idaho Dental Plan Transparency Act on the House Floor while ISDA members were present at the Capitol. This moment underscored the importance of dentists being visible and engaged during the legislative session.
Conversations with legislators focused on several priority issues impacting dental practices and patient access to care:
Continued advocacy for preservation of Medicaid and evaluation of reimbursement fees
Support for maintaining the Board of Denturity; if dissolved, integrating its responsibilities under the Board of Dentistry while preserving the dentist-to-public member ratio
Support for a pre-authorization reform bill favorable to providers and patients, including dental treatment
Ongoing support for greater dental plan transparency
These discussions were well received by lawmakers, with many expressing appreciation for hearing directly from practicing dentists about real-world impacts on patient care.
Pictured - Legislative Committee Chair Dr. Kim Keller, ISDA Executive Director La Dawn Ames, and Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke.
Reception and Relationship Building
The ISDA Legislative Reception offered a relaxed setting for deeper conversations among dentists, legislators, and stakeholders. The overall tone of the day was positive, with strong participation and meaningful dialogue that will continue beyond the legislative session.
What Went Well
Feedback from leadership and attendees noted:
Strong participation and engagement throughout the day
Positive reception from legislators
A strong sense of momentum and goodwill at the conclusion of the event
Pictured: Oral health professionals and legislators mingle at the Legislative Reception.
Opportunities for Growth in 2027
As this was our inaugural Dental Day at the Capitol, several opportunities were identified to increase impact next year:
Securing a higher-visibility “home base” location within the Capitol
Scheduling more legislator meetings, including virtual meetings before or after the event day
Adding a brief policy and position presentation during the reception to reinforce ISDA priorities
These improvements will help maximize visibility and ensure even more meaningful interactions in the years ahead. Scroll down for tools to help with this process.
The Work Continues
Dental Day at the Capitol is not a one-day effort. Legislators consistently emphasize that ongoing communication from constituents makes the greatest difference. ISDA encourages all members to continue reaching out to their elected officials throughout the year to discuss issues affecting their patients, practices, and communities.
Whether through a brief email, a phone call, or an invitation to a practice visit, your voice helps shape oral health policy in Idaho.
Thank You to Our Student Volunteers
ISDA extends special thanks to the high school dental assisting students who volunteered their time at the Capitol. These students helped distribute toothbrushes branded with Find-A-Dentist and shared ISDA position statements with legislators and visitors throughout the day.
Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and willingness to engage with policymakers helped amplify the visibility of oral health issues and demonstrated the strength of Idaho’s future dental workforce. We are grateful for their service and proud to have them represent the dental community at the Statehouse.
Pictured: High school dental assisting students and their program director, Ms. Shannon Kay, take a moment to pose before resuming efforts to spread ISDA's message about protecting access to care.
Looking Ahead to 2027
ISDA is tentatively planning the next Dental Day at the Capitol for January 28, 2027. Mark your calendar now and plan to join colleagues from across the state as we continue to strengthen relationships with Idaho lawmakers and advocate for policies that support high-quality dental care.
Together, we are reinforcing ISDA’s role as the leading authority on oral health in Idaho and ensuring that dentistry remains a trusted voice in state policy discussions.
How to Contact Your Legislator
1. Find Your Legislator
Use the Idaho Legislature’s official tool to identify your elected officials:
Who’s My Legislator? – Idaho State Legislature
2. Request a Meeting
Visit your legislator’s profile in the Legislator Directory
Look for a secretary or assistant if they serve in leadership or as a committee chair
During the session, calling the session phone number is often the most effective way to schedule time
Emails may require follow-up due to high volume
When requesting a meeting, include:
Your name and that you are a member of the Idaho State Dental Association
The purpose of the meeting
Preferred dates and times
Whether the meeting is in person or virtual
3. Know the Locations
Idaho State Capitol: 700 W Jefferson St, Boise, ID 83720
Legislator office locations are listed on individual profile pages
4. Timing Tips
Confirm your meeting the day before
Avoid scheduling during floor sessions, which typically begin mid-morning
Be flexible and respectful of limited time
5. Follow Up
Always send a brief thank-you email or note after your meeting.
