fluoridation

While some politicians say fluoridated water is government overreach, medical experts say it's important and effective for the public.

The county's safety and health committee took no action on fluoridation after the surgeon general's presentation to convince members to end the practice.

Data from the CDC shows 31 utilities in Florida had annual average fluoride levels that were approximately half the CDC’s recommended level or less for at least a year.

Lakeland delayed a hearing over the water issue until the Bartow workshop, which presented experts on both sides. Attendees included Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, who wants to end fluoridation.

The measure, introduced in the state House, includes numerous issues related to the state Department of Agriculture. Many local governments have ended fluoridation in recent months.

Dozens of Florida municipalities have decided to stop adding floride to its drinking water over concerns the practice may affect the cognitive ability of kids.

Commissioners voted to bring an ordinance on removing fluoride from the water supply at a later date. The county must also consider repairing the current fluoridation system.

If commissioners vote to follow the guidance of Florida's surgeon general, Manatee would join more than a dozen other local governments to end the practice, including Niceville in the Panhandle.

Some recent studies found fluoride exposure is associated with cognitive impacts in children, but the research isn’t conclusive. Still, many Floridians say there’s enough evidence to warrant concern.

Council members voted 4-1 in favor of halting the fluoridation of the city’s water supply after hearing opposition from the public and comment from the Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo.