Assembly Member Bonta's legislation would require health insurers and Medi-Cal to cover fluoride varnish treatments for children and young adults in primary care settings starting in 2026. The bill mandates coverage through three key mechanisms: health care service plans, private insurance policies, and the state's Medicaid program.

The measure expands access to preventive dental care by requiring health plans to cover fluoride varnish applications for patients under age 21 when provided in primary care offices. For Medi-Cal beneficiaries, the bill directs the Department of Health Care Services to establish billing and reimbursement policies for these treatments while maintaining existing coverage for other fluoride applications.

The legislation preserves insurers' obligations under federal law to cover preventive services rated highly by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Health plans must implement the new coverage requirements for policies issued or renewed after January 1, 2026. The measure specifies that local agencies and school districts will not require reimbursement for costs associated with the expanded coverage mandate.