Utah is poised to become America's first state banning fluoride in all public water systems through HB 742, a controversial bill preventing municipalities from deciding whether to add the cavity-fighting mineral. The legislation cleared its final legislative hurdle Friday and now awaits Governor Spencer Cox's signature, sparking intense debates about public health priorities versus individual choice.
Republican bill sponsors argue fluoridation imposes hidden costs and violates personal freedoms.
This isn't anti-fluoride legislation,said Rep. Stephanie Gricius. It's pro-informed consent.However, CDC data shows Utah already ranks 44th nationally for fluoridated water access, with only 66 of 484 state water systems using it.
The move coincides with new federal health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s skepticism about fluoridation – a practice the CDC considers one of the 20th century's top public health achievements. Dental experts warn the ban could disproportionately harm low-income residents.
Fluoridated water is often their only preventive care,said Utah Oral Health Coalition chair Lorna Koci.
Key impacts of the legislation:
- Bans all fluoride additives statewide
- Deregulates fluoride prescriptions for individual use
- Overrides local control of water treatment
Recent legal developments add complexity – a federal judge recently ordered the EPA to regulate fluoride levels due to developmental risks at high concentrations. Meanwhile, Salt Lake City maintains fluoridation while smaller communities like Brigham City rejected removal attempts through public votes.
With 73% of Americans drinking fluoridated water, Utah's decision could set a national precedent. Dental association leader Val Radmall recalls stark differences: Patients from fluoridated areas had 60% fewer cavities. As lawmakers finalize details, healthcare providers brace for increased pediatric dental cases if the bill becomes law.
