CVE water no longer has Fluoride

Deerfield Beach has stopped adding fluoride to its public drinking water, in compliance with the newly enacted Florida Farm Bill. Signed by Governor Ron DeSantis earlier this year, the legislation bans water fluoridation at all municipal and county levels statewide, making Florida the second state in the U.S. to adopt such a measure, after Utah. Defending the law, DeSantis said, “Forcing [fluoride] in the water supply is basically forced medication on people. They don’t have a choice” (AP News).

The decision has sparked concern among public health and dental professionals. Dr. Brett Kessler, president of the American Dental Association, warned, “It’s a real tragedy when policymakers’ decisions hurt vulnerable kids and adults in the long term” (The Guardian). Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava criticized the law for ignoring the overwhelming consensus among health experts and warned of long-term consequences for low-income families.

Opponents of fluoridation, including Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo and U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., argue the policy protects individual freedom and public safety. Kennedy has called fluoride a “dangerous neurotoxin” and praised Florida’s ban (Washington Post).

While no immediate changes will be noticeable in the water’s taste or appearance, experts will closely watch for potential increases in dental disease as a result of the policy shift.