As of May 2025, the debate over water fluoridation in the United States has intensified, with two states enacting bans and several others considering legislation to limit or prohibit the practice.

What Is Fluoride and Why Is It Added to Water?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Since 1945, many U.S. communities have added fluoride to public water supplies, a practice endorsed by health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA). The U.S. Public Health Service recommends a fluoride concentration of 0.7 mg/L in drinking water.

Is Adding Fluoride to Water A Good Thing
Is Adding Fluoride to Water A Good Thing

States That Have Banned Fluoride in Public Water

1. Utah

In March 2025, Utah became the first state to ban the addition of fluoride to public water systems. Governor Spencer Cox signed House Bill 81 into law, which took effect on May 7, 2025. The legislation allows pharmacists to prescribe fluoride but prohibits its addition to public water supplies. The ADA opposed the bill, citing concerns about increased dental health disparities.

2. Florida

On May 15, 2025, Florida followed suit, with Governor Ron DeSantis signing a bill that prohibits the addition of fluoride to the state's water systems, effective July 1, 2025. The decision aligns with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s stance against fluoridation, citing potential health risks. Critics, including dental experts, argue the ban could harm public dental health.

States Considering Anti-Fluoride Legislation

Several states have introduced bills to ban or limit water fluoridation:

  • Louisiana: Lawmakers are considering a bill to prohibit fluoridation in public water systems, influenced by the "Make America Healthy Again" movement.

  • Ohio: A bill is under review that would restrict the addition of fluoride to public water supplies.

  • South Carolina: Legislation has been proposed to ban water fluoridation.

  • Texas: Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has urged state leaders to ban fluoride in public water, emphasizing the need for public consent in health-related decisions.

  • Tennessee: A bill introduced in January 2025 seeks to prohibit public water system operators from adding fluoride to their systems.

  • Arkansas: Senate Bill 2, aiming to repeal the state's fluoridation requirement, was rejected. However, a new bill proposes allowing counties to vote on fluoridation policies.

  • Kentucky: House Bill 16 proposes making state water fluoridation programs optional, granting water operators the discretion to participate.

  • Massachusetts, Nebraska, South Dakota: Bills have been introduced to either repeal statewide fluoridation programs or set limits on the amount of fluoride added to water.

Local Governments Taking Action

Beyond state legislatures, some local governments have acted independently:

  • Miami-Dade County, Florida: In April 2025, commissioners voted to stop adding fluoride to the public water supply, citing health concerns.

Public Health Perspectives

The ADA and CDC continue to support water fluoridation as a safe and effective measure to prevent tooth decay. They argue that fluoridation benefits communities, particularly those with limited access to dental care. However, recent studies have raised concerns about potential health risks associated with fluoride, including neurodevelopmental issues in children. The FDA has initiated the process of banning oral fluoride supplements for children due to concerns over potential health risks.

Conclusion

As of May 2025, Utah and Florida have enacted statewide bans on water fluoridation, with several other states considering similar measures. The debate over fluoride in public water supplies reflects broader discussions about public health, personal freedom, and government intervention. As research continues and public opinion evolves, policies on water fluoridation are likely to remain a contentious issue across the United States.

FAQs: Fluoride in Drinking Water

Q1: What is fluoride and why is it added to water?

Fluoride is a natural mineral added to drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. It's been used since the 1940s and is supported by many health organizations.

Q2: Is fluoride in water safe?

Most public health authorities, including the CDC and ADA, say fluoride is safe and effective. However, some studies have raised concerns about overexposure and potential developmental risks in children.

Q3: Why are states banning fluoride now?

States cite emerging studies on possible health effects, growing demand for medical choice, and skepticism of federal health policies, especially post-COVID.

Q4: Which states have banned fluoride in water?

As of May 2025, Utah and Florida have officially banned fluoride from public water systems.

Q5: Are other states considering bans?

Yes. Louisiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, South Carolina, Arkansas, Kentucky, and others have proposed anti-fluoride legislation.

Q6: Can cities or counties override state laws?

In some cases, yes. For example, Miami-Dade County in Florida independently voted to stop fluoridation despite state-level policy shifts.

Q7: Does bottled water contain fluoride?

Not always. Some bottled waters are fluoridated, but many are not. Always check the label if fluoride content matters to you.