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Fluoride ban bill sparks wide testimony in Human Services hearing; medical and water officials urge local control and cite evidence for fluoridation
Summary
House Bill 16-05 would prohibit adding fluoride to public water systems. Sponsor and supporters cited recent studies and a federal court ruling; dental and public‑health witnesses and state drinking‑water officials opposed a statewide ban and emphasized local decision‑making, testing protocols and the CDC/HHS recommended level of 0.7 mg/L.
Representative Matt Heilman opened the hearing on House Bill 16-05, which would prohibit adding fluoride to public water systems statewide, impose fines for violations and include an effective date to allow local systems time to adjust. Heilman cited recent publications and a U.S. district‑court ruling and said public officials should not force fluoride on water consumers.
Proponents offered diverse arguments. Keith Tihapab Jr., a Washburn city commissioner, testified he plans to pursue cessation of fluoridation locally and disputed commonly cited benefit figures, saying some recent studies show smaller effects on cavities and that cost‑benefit studies may omit certain costs or adverse effects. He and other proponents cited a National Toxicology Program review and a JAMA…
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