In a rare 116-0 vote, the Florida House which is dominated by Republicans unanimously passed a bill from a Democrat on Veterans dental care.
In what Democrats are calling a “powerful” and unanimous vote of 116–0, the Florida House of Representatives passed HB 253, the Veterans Dental Care bill, sponsored by Democratic State Representative Jervonte “Tae” Edmonds, representing West Palm Beach.
Florida Democrats believes the vote was more than legislative procedure, it was “a statement.”
Florida is home to nearly 1.5 million Veterans. But Democrats said that too many of them have returned home from service only to face a different kind of battle: living in chronic dental pain, untreated infections, and long-term health complications simply because they lack access to affordable care.
“Imagine serving your country with honor, only to come home and suffer in silence because you can’t afford to fix a cracked tooth or treat an infection. That is not how we honor service. That is not how we treat heroes,” said South Florida State Representative Jervonte “Tae” Edmonds.
Dental health is directly tied to heart disease, diabetes, infection, and overall wellness. But federal eligibility requirements for comprehensive veterans’ dental benefits are limited, leaving thousands without coverage. HB 253 takes meaningful steps to close that gap and expand access to care for Florida veterans.
The bill’s unanimous support reflects something increasingly rare in today’s political climate: unity. The Democrat emphasized that this legislation is rooted in dignity and respect.
“When 116 members of the Florida House stand together, Democrats and Republicans, it shows that some issues rise above politics,” said Rep. Jervonte “Tae” Edmonds. “Caring for our veterans should never be partisan.”
“Our veterans kept their promise to this country. Today, the Florida House kept ours,” added Representative Jervonte “Tae” Edmonds.
View HB 253 on Veterans Dental Care online.
UPDATE: The legislation now passed the Florida Senate with a vote of 34-0. Because the bill has passed both the House and Senate in identical form, it is now being prepared as a final document for signature by legislative officers and submission to Governor Ron DeSantis.
