Utah is poised to become the first state to ban fluoride in public water if Gov. Spencer Cox signs HB 0081 into law.
- The bill, which passed the state legislature Feb. 21, prohibits adding fluoride to public water systems and repeals previous laws allowing fluoridation under certain circumstances.
The legislation follows growing anti-fluoridation sentiment, despite support from major health organizations like the CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Dental Association, which cite fluoride’s benefits in preventing tooth decay. Opponents, citing concerns about government overreach and potential health risks, have gained traction in recent years.
If enacted, Utah would join over 150 local jurisdictions nationwide that have removed fluoride from their water since 2010.
Similar legislation is being considered in Florida, where a proposed bill would prevent non-water quality additives in public water systems while still allowing private manufacturers to sell fluoridated water.
