The "Healthy Smiles Act" aims to enhance pediatric dental care accessibility under the NJ FamilyCare program by increasing reimbursement rates for oral health services. Specifically, the bill mandates a 20 percent increase in fee-for-service reimbursement rates for covered pediatric dental services starting July 1, 2025, or 60 days after the bill's enactment, whichever is later. Additionally, the Commissioner of Human Services is tasked with adjusting these rates annually based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, ensuring that the reimbursement rates remain competitive and reflective of inflation.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that managed care organizations (MCOs) must provide reimbursement rates for pediatric oral health services that are equal to or greater than the NJ FamilyCare fee-for-service rates. MCOs that fail to comply with this requirement may face civil penalties of up to $10,000 for each day of non-compliance. The Commissioner is also responsible for applying for any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to secure federal funding for these changes, and will adopt regulations to implement the act effectively.