Utah Becomes First U.S. State to Ban Fluoride in Public Water Systems

Governor Spencer Cox signed the legislation, effective May 7, citing limited health benefits and prioritizing personal choice over public health mandates.

The new law prohibits both individuals and government entities from adding fluoride to public water systems and bars local governments from permitting fluoridation.
Governor Cox justified the decision by stating there is no significant difference in dental health outcomes between Utah residents with and without access to fluoridated water.
Major health organizations, including the American Dental Association and CDC, warn the ban could lead to worsening dental health, particularly for low-income communities.
The legislation aligns with growing national skepticism toward public health interventions, influenced by figures like Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Utah ranks 44th in the U.S. for fluoridated water access, with only 44% of residents served by fluoridated systems as of 2022.