Florida is one step closer to becoming the second state to ban fluoride in public water. The Florida House gave final approval to Senate Bill 700 on Tuesday.
The bill would prevent local governments from adding fluoride to water supplies, and it is heading to Gov. Ron DeSantis' desk. If it’s signed into law, the water you brush your teeth with might worsen your dental health.
Those against the bill ( SB 700 ) say adding fluoride to water supplies helps protect children from having cavities and other dental problems and is a "game changer for dental health."
“There is a huge concern from the public health community, from the dental community, that removing fluoride would have serious consequences including higher healthcare costs," said State Rep, Anna Eskamani.
Supporters said government agencies should not decide whether to put drugs and chemicals into people’s bodies. They argue it's about your liberty.
"What we argue is that we can’t force you to have it, or any other drug that some simple majority may believe is good for you, in the future," said State Rep. Danny Alvarez.
The bill comes after many counties had debates about ending the decades-old practice of adding fluoride to public water.
In our area, all of Collier County and in Lee County, those on county water have already voted to stop adding fluoride to the water supply.
The bill also touches on many other things, like selling mislabeled plant-based food like milk, meat or eggs.
Count on Gulf Coast News to let you know what happens.
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