Utah is on the verge of enacting a groundbreaking law that prohibits the addition of fluoride to public water systems without allowing local jurisdictions the authority to decide otherwise. This proposed legislation would mark Utah as the first state in the United States to implement such a comprehensive fluoridation ban. Recently, this bill advanced through the state legislature and is now awaiting the decision of Governor Spencer Cox. It remains uncertain if he will enact or veto the measure.
This movement in Utah emerges amidst growing debates and actions across the nation concerning water fluoridation. Several municipalities have already ceased the practice, and more are considering it. Additionally, a federal judge recently instructed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to regulate fluoride levels in drinking water, citing potential risks to children’s cognitive development.
Despite being close to a complete ban, Utah ranks low nationally for its use of fluoridated water, with less than half of the population having access to it. Lawmakers backing the bill, led by state Republican Rep. Stephanie Gricius and state Sen. Kirk Cullimore, argue that the financial cost of fluoridation is too burdensome. Gricius emphasized that the legislation focuses on granting individuals informed choice without completely opposing fluoride use.
Proponents of water fluoridation, such as Lorna Koci of the Utah Oral Health Coalition, advocate strongly for its continuation, citing its cost-effectiveness in preventing dental issues such as cavities. Koci criticized anti-fluoride advocates for leveraging influential voices skeptical of fluoridation to bolster their cause. She stressed the necessity of fluoridated public water, particularly for low-income residents who may lack access to other forms of dental care.
Nationally, fluoride is considered beneficial for dental health by strengthening teeth and reducing cavities, according to health authorities. Despite these benefits, Utah shows resistance toward the practice, evidenced by the failed attempt in Brigham City to remove fluoride, where citizens voted overwhelmingly to maintain fluoridation.
Val Radmall, leading the Utah Dental Association, expressed concerns over the proposed ban. Drawing from years of experience in a non-fluoridated region, he observed a noticeable difference in dental health, highlighting higher cavity rates in areas lacking fluoride. The debate continues as health organizations and state officials await the final decision on the bill.
