13-05-2025
Emerald Coast Utilities Authority may soon stop adding fluoride to drinking water
ESCAMBIA COUNTY, Fla. (WKRG) — Emerald Coast Utilities Authority may soon stop adding fluoride to drinking water.
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'In about 1988, when it was voted on by the public at large, at that point in time it passed with about 58% of the voter base favoring fluoride. That's the reason it was added at that time,' Bruce Woody, executive director of Emerald Coast Utilities Authority, said.
Florida legislators passed a bill banning local governments from adding fluoride to public drinking water.
The bill has not been signed, but Governor Ron DeSantis's administration has advocated against fluoridation, arguing high levels could pose a risk to children's intellectual development.
However, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fluoride strengthens teeth by replacing minerals lost during normal wear and tear helping both children and adults prevent cavities.
'Without fluoride in the water then it would be important to discuss with your dentist what would be important for your particular situation, whether that be fluoride additives or be sure that you use other dental products such as toothpastes and washes and such,' Woody said.
ECUA said they have been ordering less fluoride as a result of the bill's passage. They said they will monitor their supply to avoid having chemical supplies beyond what they can use through July 1, when the bill would take effect.
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ECUA said the addition of fluoride costs approximately $340K per year in total. They said the future savings from no longer adding fluoride would be used toward the increasing expense of water production operations.
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