On May 15, 2025, Florida became the second U.S. state, after Utah, to ban the addition of fluoride to public drinking water. Governor Ron DeSantis signed the legislation into law, which will take effect on July 1, 2025. The law prohibits the use of certain additives in water systems, a move that aligns with the governor’s stance against what he describes as “forced medication”.
The decision follows a growing movement among conservative lawmakers and health officials who question the safety and ethics of water fluoridation. Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo has been a vocal proponent of discontinuing the practice, citing studies suggesting potential neurodevelopmental risks in children . Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has also expressed concerns about fluoride exposure, linking it to cognitive impairments and other health issues.
The American Dental Association and other public health experts have criticized the ban, warning that it could lead to increased tooth decay and cavities, particularly among children and low-income communities who may have limited access to dental care . Studies from other countries, such as Israel, have shown that discontinuing water fluoridation can result in a rise in dental health problems.
Despite these concerns, the Florida legislature passed the bill as part of a broader “farm bill,” and Governor DeSantis has defended the move as a matter of individual choice. He emphasized that while fluoride is available in toothpaste and mouthwashes, adding it to the public water supply removes personal consent. As the law approaches its implementation date, it remains a contentious issue in Florida, reflecting a broader national debate over the role of government in public health interventions.
