Blair-Sherlock backs SB3211 to update Illinois teledentistry law

Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock (D-46th) cast a Yes vote for SB3211, legislation updating teledentistry provisions in Illinois, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026. The Illinois House passed the bill unanimously, 116-0.

According to the official summary, the legislation focuses on "TELEDENTISTRY EXAMINATIONS."

The following explanation references details from the actual bill text and may offer interpretation for clarity.

This measure amends the Illinois Dental Practice Act’s rules for teledentistry, allowing initial exams for most new patients—except those seeking orthodontic care—to be conducted remotely, provided the dentist establishes a legitimate dentist-patient relationship by reviewing health histories and verifying the patient's identity and Illinois residency. Initial visits for orthodontics must still occur in person, and any irreversible dental procedures require a face-to-face exam immediately prior. For established dentist-patient relationships, dentists must strongly encourage annual in-person visits.

The official record for SB3211 listed the action as 'Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed'.

Blair-Sherlock received her AA from College of DuPage in 1985 and earned a BS from Northern Illinois University in 1987. She completed her JD at John Marshall Law School in 1993.

Elected in 2023, Democrat Blair-Sherlock represents Illinois' 46th House District, succeeding Deborah Conroy in the State House.

Each bill introduced in Illinois moves through a multi-step legislative process that starts with introduction in either chamber, review by committees, floor debate, votes in both chambers, and finally, consideration by the governor for approval or veto. Although thousands of bills are brought forward in every biennial session of the General Assembly, only some are enacted into law.