• Utah's legislature has approved a bill to ban fluoride in public drinking water.
• The bill awaits the signature of Governor Spencer Cox to become law.
• Robert F. Kennedy Jr., recently appointed health secretary, has expressed skepticism toward water fluoridation.
• Supporters argue the bill is about individual choice, while opponents cite public health benefits.
• About 44% of Utah residents currently receive fluoridated water.

In a landmark move, Utah may soon become the first state in the U.S. to implement a full ban on the addition of fluoride to public drinking water. The bill, known as H.B. 81, passed the Utah State Senate and now awaits the approval of Governor Spencer Cox. If signed, the legislation will take effect on May 7, 2025. Gov. Cox has not publicly declared his stance on the issue, according to HuffPost.

The recent passage occurs against the backdrop of heightened controversy surrounding fluoridation, particularly with the recent appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as U.S. Health Secretary. Kennedy has voiced strong opposition to the practice, claiming that the Trump administration will advise local water systems to eliminate fluoride. Many proponents of the ban, including the bill's sponsor, Representative Stephanie Gricius, argue that fluoride could have detrimental neurological effects on children and fetuses, a claim supported by some recent studies showing correlations between high fluoride levels and lower IQ scores, although critics note these levels exceed those found in typical water fluoridation practices. As reported by the New York Times, "The evidence that addition of fluoride to the water reduces cavities and tooth decay is unequivocal,” emphasized Dr. F. Perry Wilson from Yale School of Medicine.

Currently, Utah ranks low in fluoride consumption, with around 44 percent of residents receiving fluoridated water. This statistic mirrors national trends, as many communities across the U.S. are reevaluating their fluoridation policies in light of emerging research. Notably, Florida serves approximately 78 percent of its population fluoridated water, showcasing a stark contrast to Utah’s situation, according to Newsweek.

Supporters of the ban assert that this is not an anti-fluoride initiative but rather a measure for “pro-informed consent and individual choice.” Critics argue that fluoride has been one of the most effective measures for preventing dental decay, particularly for low-income families who may lack access to preventive dental care. Val Radmall, executive director of the Utah Dental Association, reflected on his experience in non-fluoridated communities, noting, "You didn't grow up here. Where did you grow up?’ ... because everybody here has lots of cavities!” This assertion emphasizes the potential public health ramifications of a state-wide ban on fluoride.

As the bill awaits a signature from Governor Cox, the outcome could set a significant precedent not just for Utah, but for similar legislative efforts across the country, hinting at a possible shift in public health policy regarding fluoride in drinking water.