Liberty Dental Plan creates a dedicated toll-free number following state of emergency proclamation for the Dove Fire in Tuolumne County issued on October 15, 2026
Under government code section 8558(b), the governor found that the Dove Fire put people and property in Tuolumne County in great danger. He also stated that the fire is so large that it is likely too big for any one local government to handle alone and will need help from other areas working together.
On July 27, 2026, after the governor's office of emergency services asked for help, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved a grant to help fight and control the fire. The Dove Fire forced 600 homes to evacuate, warned another 1,400 homes to be ready to leave, and destroyed 12 buildings. The fire left behind dangerous debris that may hold harmful toxins, such as arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, and asbestos, which must be cleaned up and thrown away safely and quickly.
On October 15, 2026, Governor Newsom issued a State of Emergency Proclamation for the Dove Fire. The Dove Fire started burning in Tuolumne County near Highway 108 and Stockton Street. It burned 226 acres before it was fully put out on August 1, 2026.
As of this date, Liberty Dental Plan (Liberty) has not been impacted by this incident. The Plan does not expect to have any issues with our regular day to day operations. We will continue to be available to members. This includes after hours and on the weekend. We are sharing our availability to potentially impacted enrollees through this press release on our website.
Liberty has taken steps to make sure that our members' oral health care needs are met through a dedicated toll-free number to our call center is available to all members. This includes 24/7 call availability to refer members to a dentist. Contact Member Services toll-free at 877-864-7811.
This policy applies in the event of any state of emergency declared by the governor and health emergencies declared by the State Public Health Officer. Liberty will comply with guidance issued by the Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) related to the emergency.
About Liberty Dental Plan
Founded in 2001, Liberty is dedicated to delivering quality, innovative, and affordable dental benefits that support health, strengthen communities, and enhance lives. Liberty currently administers dental benefits for more than 7.5 million members nationwide across Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, Commercial, and Exchange. Learn more at libertydentalplan.com.
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Jennifer Nguyen, Media Relations
