SMILE for Veterans Act
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (29 Sep 2026): Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
What this bill does
The SMILE for Veterans Act, if enacted, would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a pilot program aimed at improving access to and awareness of community-based dental services for eligible veterans living in rural areas. This program would involve contracting with community providers, including mobile clinics, to offer dental care such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and urgent services. It would also include outreach to inform veterans about these available services. The pilot would operate in at least ten rural locations across five states.
The bill specifies eligibility criteria for veterans to participate, generally requiring enrollment in the VA patient system, residency in a rural area, and either not being eligible for VA dental care or facing access issues with existing VA dental services or the Community Care Network. Special provisions are included for homeless veterans to facilitate their eligibility and access. The program also proposes establishing an internal working group within the VA to study dental care access challenges for rural veterans.
This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 16, 2026, and has been referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. If it moves forward, it would typically undergo committee review, potentially be amended, and then be considered by the full House. If passed by the House, it would then proceed to the Senate for consideration. The bill authorizes specific funding for fiscal years 2027 through 2030 for the program's establishment and execution.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
29 Sep 2026
Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 10419 do?
- The SMILE for Veterans Act, if enacted, would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a pilot program aimed at improving access to and awareness of community-based dental services for eligible veterans living in rural areas. This program would involve contracting with community providers, including mobile clinics, to offer dental care such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and urgent services. It would also include outreach to inform veterans about these available services. The pilot would operate in at least ten rural locations across five states. The bill specifies eligibility criteria for veterans to participate, generally requiring enrollment in the VA patient system, residency in a rural area, and either not being eligible for VA dental care or facing access issues with existing VA dental services or the Community Care Network. Special provisions are included for homeless veterans to facilitate their eligibility and access. The program also proposes establishing an internal working group within the VA to study dental care access challenges for rural veterans. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 16, 2026, and has been referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. If it moves forward, it would typically undergo committee review, potentially be amended, and then be considered by the full House. If passed by the House, it would then proceed to the Senate for consideration. The bill authorizes specific funding for fiscal years 2027 through 2030 for the program's establishment and execution.
- Has H.R. 10419 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 10419. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 10419?
- H.R. 10419 was sponsored by Rep. Bergman, Jack [R-MI-1] (R-MI), with 5 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 10419?
- Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. (29 Sep 2026).
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