Florida Enacts Statewide Ban on Fluoride in Drinking Water
On Thursday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation prohibiting local governments from adding fluoride to community water systems. This move makes Florida the second state, alongside Utah, to implement a statewide ban on the mineral.
The Signing Event
During a public gathering in Dade City, DeSantis expressed concerns over the government-mandated addition of fluoride to drinking water. He stated, “Yes, use fluoride for your teeth, that’s fine, but forcing it in the water supply is basically forced medication on people. They don’t have a choice; you’re taking that away from them.”
Legislative Background
The Florida Legislature passed the bill last month, which requires the removal of fluoride and certain other additives from water supplies statewide. This legislation will take effect on July 1, following Utah’s earlier ban that came into force last week.
Local Government Actions
Several local governments in Florida have initiated the process of eliminating fluoride from their water supplies prior to the statewide ban. Notably, Miami-Dade County commissioners recently voted to override a veto by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and proceed with plans to remove fluoride from the county’s drinking water system. In a statement defending her veto, Levine Cava highlighted that “water fluoridation is a safe, effective, and efficient way to maintain dental health in our county,” stressing potential long-term health consequences for vulnerable families.
Political Context
The move to ban fluoride has gained traction in several Republican-led states, influenced by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s advocacy against water fluoridation. During the recent signing, DeSantis was accompanied by state surgeon general Joseph Ladapo, who has faced scrutiny over his positions on public health policies, including vaccine mandates related to COVID-19.
Health Implications of Fluoride
Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, has been added to drinking water for many years to enhance dental health by replenishing minerals lost from teeth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes this practice as one of the significant public health successes of the past century. However, excessive fluoride intake can lead to dental issues such as streaking or spots on teeth, and some studies have suggested potential links between high fluoride levels and brain development concerns.
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