The Q1 FY26–27 (June 1-August 31) AAO Advocacy and AAOPAC dashboard is now available, highlighting progress on federal and state priorities and growing member engagement across the United States and Canada.
View the Q1 FY26–27 AAO Advocacy and AAOPAC Dashboard
Federal and State Advocacy Highlights
- ORTHO Act was introduced in Congress. Introduced July 23 by Congressman Brian Babin, DDS, the AAO-supported ORTHO Act (H.R. 9829) would establish federal patient health and safety standards for orthodontic treatment delivered through teledentistry, including an in-person examination before treatment begins.
- State advocacy advanced patient protections and workforce priorities. The AAO defended specialty advertising standards in Ohio, supported specialty advertising legislation in Michigan, and assisted Utah advocacy on expanded-function certifications for dental auxiliaries.
- Professional accountability remained central to AI advocacy. The AAO helped stop advancement of a proposed artificial intelligence policy at the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), raising concerns about the lack of clinician oversight, state licensure and patient safety.
- Grassroots engagement continued to grow. AAO members participated in 1,133 grassroots actions and trainings, and the National Advocacy Network reached 115 volunteer leaders. New Advocacy 101 training and videos help members learn about priorities and get involved.
- AAO staff heard directly from future orthodontists. At GORP in Ann Arbor, AAO staff discussed the REDI Act, promoted the AAO Resident Legal Course and gathered feedback on educational debt. Of 84 residents surveyed, 50% reported being affected by the new federal student loan caps that went into effect on July 1, 2026.
- AAO leaders and staff strengthened relationships with policymakers. AAO leaders and staff engaged federal and state lawmakers throughout the quarter, sharing AAO priorities and building relationships that support ongoing advocacy.
