Utah is poised to become the first state in the country to impose a complete ban on fluoride in public water systems. The new legislation prohibits cities and communities from deciding whether to add fluoride, a mineral commonly used to prevent cavities.
Supporters of the bill, including its sponsors, state Rep. Stephanie Gricius and state Sen. Kirk Cullimore, argue that the cost of fluoridating water is too high. Gricius emphasized that the legislation promotes individual choice regarding fluoride use rather than being strictly anti-fluoride. The bill has cleared all legislative hurdles and is now awaiting Governor Spencer Cox’s signature.
As skepticism toward water fluoridation grows, particularly following statements from federal health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., more cities nationwide are reconsidering their fluoridation policies. Some municipalities have already removed fluoride from their water supplies, and a recent federal court ruling has mandated the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate fluoride levels due to potential risks to children’s intellectual development.
Currently, Utah ranks 44th among U.S. states in the percentage of residents with access to fluoridated water, with around 40% of Utahns utilizing these systems. Proponents of water fluoridation, like Lorna Koci of the Utah Oral Health Coalition, argue that it remains an affordable method for preventing tooth decay, particularly for those from low-income backgrounds who may lack access to other forms of dental care.
In contrast, some community members believe that fluoride poses more risks than benefits. An example of this was seen in Brigham City, where residents voted decisively against removing fluoride from their water supply in a recent election.
Val Radmall from the Utah Dental Association expressed concern over the new bill, noting that his experience in non-fluoridated areas showed a clear link between the lack of fluoride and higher rates of cavities among the population. He and others have attempted to persuade lawmakers to reconsider the decision.
As the debate continues, Utah’s decision could serve as a significant turning point in the ongoing dialogue about fluoride use in water systems across the nation.
