Florida formally signs to ban fluoride in drinking water

WEST PALM BEACH, FLA.: In a landmark move that has stirred both support and criticism, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill banning the addition of fluoride to public water systems, making Florida the second state in the U.S.—after Utah—to enforce a statewide ban on water fluoridation.

The law, which goes into effect on July 1, prohibits local governments from adding fluoride and certain other chemical additives to drinking water. The decision has sparked nationwide debate over health freedom, public health policy, and the future of preventive dental care.

Governor cites ‘forced medication’ as a key concern

At a public signing ceremony in Dade City, Gov. DeSantis defended the move, stating,

“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.”

This marks a continuation of DeSantis' broader agenda promoting individual health autonomy, alongside Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, known for his stance against federal public health mandates.

Local pushback from dentists and health advocates

Public health experts and dental associations have criticized the bill, warning of potential consequences for community dental health, especially for low-income families and children who benefit from fluoridated water.

Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, who previously vetoed local plans to halt fluoridation, stated:

“Water fluoridation is a safe, effective, and efficient way to maintain dental health in our county – and halting it could have long-lasting health consequences.”

However, the Miami-Dade County Commission overrode the veto, aligning with the new state mandate.

What is fluoride and why is it used in water?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral added to public water supplies to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. The CDC has named community water fluoridation as one of the top ten public health achievements of the 20th century.

Despite its benefits, excess fluoride has been linked to:

• Dental fluorosis (white spots or streaks on teeth)
• Concerns over neurological development in children (based on emerging studies)

National trend: Utah first, Florida follows

Florida’s ban mirrors Utah’s legislation, passed in March, which also prohibits water fluoridation at a state level. The momentum behind such bills has been partly driven by political figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent opponent of water fluoridation.

What this means for residents

Florida residents will no longer receive fluoride through municipal water sources. The law encourages people to pursue dental hygiene individually, with fluoridated toothpaste and other supplements, if desired.

Dentists, however, warn this may lead to an increase in tooth decay, particularly among children without access to private dental care.