Florida Joins Ranks as Second State to Prohibit Fluoride in Public Drinking Water: What This Means for Residents

Florida has just become the second state to ban fluoride in public water systems. Governor Ron DeSantis signed the bill known as SB 700, which effectively prohibits certain additives, including fluoride, in water supplies. This law will take effect on July 1.

In a recent news conference, DeSantis emphasized that forcing fluoride into water is akin to mandatory medication. He believes this practice removes choice from residents. He also expressed concerns about fluoride’s impact on pregnant women and children, mentioning the need for informed consent. Florida’s Surgeon General, Joseph Ladapo, has been vocal about the potential negative effects of fluoride.

Interestingly, a study from 2019 indicated that children whose mothers had higher fluoride levels during pregnancy had slightly lower IQs. However, the research was inconclusive. The governor maintains that individuals can still use fluoride if they choose, just not through public water systems.

In Miami, the situation is contentious. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava opposed the fluoride ban, criticizing the legislature’s decision as contrary to expert opinion. Her veto was overridden by the county commission, reflecting a divided sentiment on this issue.

Florida follows Utah, which was the first state to prohibit fluoride in March. The rise of the anti-fluoridation movement seems to have increased, partly sparked by public figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who argues against drinking fluoridated water.

Despite this trend, major health organizations—including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—support fluoridation. They argue that fluoride significantly reduces cavities, with studies showing a 25% drop in tooth decay rates.

States like Kentucky, Massachusetts, and North Carolina have also seen similar legislation proposed. Notably, Hawaii has never mandated fluoridation and currently has the highest rates of tooth decay among children in the U.S., with only 11% of its population receiving fluoridated water.

As public debate continues, it’s clear that the conversation around fluoride in drinking water is far from over.



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