Rep. DeLaRosa backs SB3211 to permit virtual dental exams for new patients

Rep. Margaret A. DeLaRosa (D-42nd) cast a Yes vote for SB3211 during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, authorizing initial dental exams for most new patients to be conducted via teledentistry, according to the Illinois House. The House passed the bill with a unanimous 116-0 vote.

The bill summary described it as concerning "TELEDENTISTRY EXAMINATIONS."

Here is a summary of the bill, based on the official text; some interpretation is included for clarity.

Essentially, the legislation amends the Illinois Dental Practice Act to expand teledentistry, permitting dentists to perform initial exams for new patients remotely by verifying medical and dental history, as well as confirming patient identity and their Illinois location. This does not apply to patients seeking orthodontic care, who must have in-person initial exams. The bill also states that a face-to-face clinical exam is necessary prior to delivering or authorizing irreversible dental procedures. For existing dentist-patient relationships, dentists are required to strongly urge annual in-person visits.

SB3211 was recorded as 'Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed'.

DeLaRosa is a graduate of DePaul University with a Bachelor of Science degree.

DeLaRosa, a Democrat, won election to the Illinois State House in 2025 for the 42nd District, succeeding Terra Costa Howard as state representative.

Bills in Illinois move through a multi-step process that involves introduction in either chamber, committee hearings, floor debate, and votes in both the House and Senate before potential approval or veto by the governor. The General Assembly operates on a two-year schedule and typically considers thousands of proposals each session, though only a small portion are enacted into law.