Updates About Public Health

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently announced a $320,000 grant from the Delta Dental Foundation (DDF) to sustain and expand SEAL! Michigan, the state’s school-based dental sealant program. Over the last 15 years, DDF has contributed over $3 million to support SEAL! Michigan and water fluoridation efforts across the state.

The funding will help expand outreach and impact more students through preventive dental care, including screenings and sealant placement that help prevent cavities, reduce pain, and minimize missed school days.

Starting in the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year, the federal government is switching from a 50/50 split in covering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) administration costs to 75/25, meaning that states will have to pitch in more for the program. The cost to run SNAP in Michigan for FY 2024-2025 was $382.7 million, under the 50/50 split Michigan covered $191.4 million. This number is projected to increase by $95 million in the coming fiscal cycle to approximately $287 million.

Additionally, due to the federal government penalization for states that have a 6% or higher SNAP error rate, the total cost for the Michigan SNAP program could be around $768 million if the state’s error rate is in the highest penalization bracket. Michigan’s current SNAP error rate is 9.53%, just shy of the 10+% error rate that qualifies for the maximum penalty. According to the new regulations, if Michigan’s error rate remains the same, the total cost for the SNAP program in the state would be $607 million ($287 million in upfront costs and a $320 million penalty).

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is looking for members to serve on the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Advisory Council. Those selected will support the implementation of Michigan’s RHT program.

The Rural Health Transformation Program stems from a grant established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) under the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) passed into law this year. The grant program is a five-year initiative that will allocate up to $10 billion to states each year from 2026 to 2030. This year, all 50 states received funding for FY 2026, with Michigan set to receive $173.1 million.

MDHHS will be awarding the funds to organizations in the state that prioritize expanding access, quality, costs, and technology advancements of healthcare for rural Michigan residents.

The advisory council will have the responsibility of creating a strategy to strengthen the input of partners and communities throughout the implementation of the program. The council will also offer guidance to MDHHS on decision making and ensure the program remains committed to rural areas.

Individuals and organizations with experience and commitment to improving rural health are encouraged to apply for a seat on the council. Other criteria include knowledge of rural health challenges or service delivery gaps, dedication to problem-solving, and availability to participate and contribute to the program’s scheduled meetings.

Interested applicants can apply here. To receive updates on program developments, you may also subscribe to the RHT Listserv. Applications are due end of day 1/23.