Senate Public Health opened a hearing March 21 on Senate Resolution 12, which would confirm four gubernatorial appointees to the Montana Board of Dentistry.

Hannah Slusser, on behalf of the governor's office, described the board as a 10-member panel: five dentists, one denturist, two dental hygienists and two public members. Supporters told the committee the nominees bring a mix of clinical and public-perspective experience.

Christopher Facundo, a current public member of the board, said he takes the role seriously and has not missed a meeting since his 2024 appointment. Rod Griffith, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Billings who serves as the board's anesthesia committee chair, requested confirmation and said the anesthesia committee is “tackling some issues” and looks forward to continued work.

Webb Brown, representing the Montana Dental Association, endorsed the slate and highlighted nominees' varied experience: “Doctor Griffith is also serving as a permit holder for anesthesia on the board ... Doctor Hogan has a unique perspective ... she has served as a dental assistant, as a dental hygienist and now as a dentist.”

Robin Hogan (testifying by phone) and Karissa Kingery (dental hygienist) described their professional backgrounds and asked for confirmation. No opponents appeared and the committee closed the hearing without taking a final vote; the sponsor thanked proponents and said the committee would consider confirmations at a later date.