Mich. law protects volunteer dentists from lawsuits

Retired dentists who volunteer their services will be protected from frivolous lawsuits thanks to a new law that was just passed in Michigan.

HB 4389, sponsored by state Rep. Jim Stamas, ensures that retired dentists who want to help their community may do so without fear of being sued, as long as the dentist possesses a voluntary license issued by the Bureau of Health Professionals and services are offered for free. Similar protections are already extended to retired physicians and podiatrists.

"Current law unfortunately discourages retired dentists from volunteering their services," said Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder, who signed the bill into law June 7. "This change means help for people who otherwise may not have access to dental care."

HB 4389 is now Public Act 55 of 2011.