Utah to Become First State to Ban Fluoridation of Public Water
Governor Spencer Cox has pledged to sign the bill, citing individual choice over government-mandated medication.
- Utah's legislature has passed a bill prohibiting the addition of fluoride to public water systems, making it the first state to enact such a ban.
- Governor Spencer Cox has confirmed he will sign the bill, despite expressing neutrality on the issue.
- Proponents of the ban argue fluoride poses health risks, including potential cognitive impacts on children, citing studies with moderate evidence of harm.
- The American Dental Association and other health organizations oppose the ban, emphasizing fluoride's role in reducing dental decay and saving healthcare costs.
- The bill allows individuals to obtain fluoride through prescriptions, supporting personal choice over mandatory fluoridation.