Utah became the first in the country to ban fluoride in public drinking water when Gov. Spencer Cox (R) signed HB 81 into law on March 27, despite opposition from the ADA and the Utah Dental Association. While many states allow such decisions to be made by local municipalities, this represents the first statewide prohibition.
The ADA issued a statement criticizing Utah’s decision, citing extensive evidence that ending fluoridation leads to increased dental disease, particularly among children and vulnerable populations. They urged legislators nationwide to trust credible science showing that fluoridation is a cost-effective public health measure that prevents cavities, saves money and reduces the burden of dental care. The bill is set to go into effect on May 7.
