Legislation

WI-DHA Advocacy

Advocacy shapes the opportunities and settings in which dental hygienists can practice. WI-DHA represents the interests of Wisconsin dental hygienists, the profession, and public oral health at the state and local levels. At the state level, WI-DHA works with state legislatures and dental and dental hygiene boards to strengthen laws that protect public oral health and advance the practice of dental hygiene.

Advocacy is Necessary for Legislative Success

Understanding the purpose of and need for a strong professional advocacy program is the first step in achieving legislative success. It is important to know what role the WI-DHA plays in these efforts and, more importantly, what role you play in this process.

The Legislative Process

This is the process by which laws are made. This is important for the Dental Hygiene profession as it is a legislated profession. This means the dental hygiene scope of practice is determined and defined by legislators and Dental Examining Board. Members of WI-DHA, are advocates for dental hygienists and for the patients they serve.

Advocacy is a major function of the WI-DHA. By being politically active, WI-DHA members demonstrate to their legislators they are committed to advancing profession to better serve patients.

Advocacy in Action

Three Factors Needed to Move Legislation in Wisconsin

Merit

Legitimacy of your issue. Explain clearly to legislators what problem exists, who is impacted by it, why it must be fixed and how to fix it.

Funding

The need for financial support is important to fund the cost of running a political campaign. WI-DHA has a fund specific to dental hygiene related advocacy called WI-HYPAC.

Membership

There is power in numbers and having many voices speak for a common concern. can be the most effective way to achieve success in the legislature. A constituent or voter from a specific Wisconsin community can help educate and influence legislators for that area more effectively than anyone else. WI-DHA can achieve the level of success it needs with an active, well organized membership.