Utah is set to become the first state to put a stop to introducing fluoride into public water. The bill has gone through all the processes required and is currently waiting for Gov. Spencer Cox’s signature. If he signs, this could lead other states to follow in its footsteps.
What’s in the Bill?
The bill prevents cities and communities from adding fluoride to their public water supply. Supporters argue that it enables individuals choice, while critics warn that it could be detrimental to public health. Rep. Stephanie Gricius, the bill’s sponsor, argues that fluoride should be an option, not a mandate.
RFK Jr.’s Influence
New federal health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is questioning the safety of water fluoridation. His stance has encouraged opponents of fluoride. Donald Trump would like to terminate fluoride nationwide, which Utah already voted for.
Fluoride and Public Health
Fluoride has been hailed as one of the most significant accomplishments in public health. It’s recommended by the CDC and ADA for preventing cavities. But there are a few who claim that it should not be prescribed to everyone. Utah’s action could change the way states control fluoridation.
Utah’s Current Fluoridation Rates
Utah ranks 44th in fluoridated water coverage. Only two out of five Utahans had fluoridated water in 2022. Some cities, like Salt Lake City, fluoridate currently, but this bill would eliminate that option entirely.
Cost vs. Public Health
Proponents argue that adding fluoride to water is expensive. Gricius stresses the main need being to inform the public, not halt the addition of fluoride to water supply. Opponents of it, such as the Utah Oral Health Coalition, argue that adding fluoride to water is the most inexpensive method of preventing tooth decay, particularly among low-income individuals. Beyond human health, opponents of fluoride bans warn that its removal would be detrimental to water ecosystems since fluoride plays a role in soil and water health.
The National Fluoride Debate
A number of cities have taken out fluoride in recent years. A federal judge recently compelled the EPA to regulate fluoride levels because of concerns over its effect on children’s IQ. Utah’s move could precipitate similar legislative action in other states.
Brigham City’s Fluoride Battle
In 2023, Brigham City voters rejected a proposal to remove fluoride by a two-to-one margin. This shows that while lawmakers are pushing for fluoride bans, voters don’t necessarily agreen. Will Utah’s bill face public resistance?
Dentists Sound the Alarm
Dentists argue that taking out fluoride would lead to additional tooth decay and higher dental bills. Val Radmall, with the Utah Dental Association, says he can tell when patients were raised in non-fluoride communities. Poor dental health could become an even bigger problem across the state.
The Bigger Picture: Other States Are Taking Note of Utah
Utah’s action could impact other states. At least eight states like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee are said to be looking at similar bills. If the bill is signed by Gov. Cox, other states might well follow.
What’s Next for Utah?
The bill is currently with Gov. Cox. He has not yet confirmed if he will sign it. If he does, Utah will be the first state to completely ban fluoride. If he rejects it, the fight over fluoride could continue.
Public Reaction
The bill has generated a great deal of controversy. Opponents worry about additional dental issues. With 252 comments posted on the Associated Press article, it’s clear this choice has been noticed across the country.
Will Your State Be Next?
Utah might be first, but it won’t be the last. Other states are looking at doing the same, so the fluoride controversy is anything but over. What do you think: should fluoride be optional or mandatory for public health?
