The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, signed the SB 700 law this Thursday, which prohibits local governments from adding fluoride to the drinking water throughout the state. With this decision, Florida becomes the second state in the country to implement such a ban, after Utah.
The signing event took place in Dade City, where the governor defended the measure stating, “Yes, use fluoride for your teeth, that’s fine. But forcing it in the water supply is essentially forced medication on people. They have no choice. Their choice is being taken away.”
The measure is part of the legislative package known as Florida Farm Bill and states that no additives may be used in the public water system that do not meet the new definition of “water quality additive,” which is defined as “a chemical substance used specifically to meet drinking water standards, contaminants, or quality,” according to CNN.
The bill was approved by the state Congress in April. The measure will take effect on July 1. Some local governments had already taken action ahead of the measure. In Miami-Dade, the commissioners voted in favor of removing fluoride from the drinking water supply, despite the veto from Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, as reported by AP.
The state surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, issued a recommendation against community water fluoridation in November 2024. According to CNN, Ladapo stated: “More than 70% of Floridians using community water systems receive fluoridated water.”
The measure has been criticized by public health organizations. CNN reminds us that "the CDC reiterated its confidence in the health benefits of fluoride in 2015, naming water fluoridation as one of the '10 greatest public health achievements of the 21st century'." The same source indicates that "the ADA has also emphasized that 'eighty years of community water fluoridation at optimal levels have been proven safe and effective in reducing dental caries and improving oral health'."
On the other hand, it was noted that "research has shown that exposure to fluoridated water during pregnancy is associated with an increase in neurobehavioral problems in children, and a federal review concluded that higher levels are linked to a lower IQ in minors."
DeSantis's decision reinforces his narrative about the so-called "Free State of Florida," focused on informed consent and the rejection of what he views as forced chemical interventions. The governor had already expressed his support for the project days earlier, at an event in Miami, alongside another legislative proposal against geoengineering.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fluoride Ban in Florida's Water
Why has Florida banned the fluoridation of drinking water?
Florida has prohibited the fluoridation of drinking water as part of a measure that promotes informed consent and rejects forced medication. Governor Ron DeSantis argues that adding fluoride to water without citizens' choice is a form of chemical intervention without their explicit consent. This measure is part of the legislative package known as the Florida Farm Bill.
What are the health reasons behind the fluoride ban in Florida?
The ban is based on health concerns, particularly regarding the potential neurotoxic effects of fluoride on children and pregnant women, according to the state surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo. Although fluoride is known for strengthening teeth and preventing cavities, some studies have indicated potential risks such as neurobehavioral issues and a reduction in IQ among minors.
What arguments do public health organizations present regarding the use of fluoride in water?
Public health organizations advocate for water fluoridation as a safe and effective measure to reduce dental cavities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have classified water fluoridation as one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. The American Dental Association has also endorsed its use, highlighting its benefits for oral health.
When will the new law prohibiting fluoride in Florida take effect?
The law prohibiting the addition of fluoride to drinking water in Florida will come into effect on July 1, 2025. This ban was signed by Governor Ron DeSantis and has already been adopted by some local governments, such as Miami-Dade County.
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