State Senator Janae Shamp (R-AZ) is leading SB 1019 to ban fluoride in Arizona's public water systems, citing studies that raise questions about potential health risks from high fluoride exposure.
Some Arizona cities add fluoride to their water for dental health, while larger cities such as Tucson, Flagstaff, and Scottsdale do not. The practice remains controversial in the state. According to public health data, water fluoridation has been associated with reduced cavity rates, and over 50% of Arizonans receive fluoridated water.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) support water fluoridation, recognizing it as a safe and effective public health measure for improving dental health.
However, Senator Shamp introduced the bill to give families more control over their fluoride intake. She referenced studies suggesting that significant fluoride exposure could potentially be linked to lower IQ scores in children, possible risks to bone health, and undetermined links to bone cancer.
"As a state senator and nurse, I cannot support fluoridation as a form of mass medication without informed consent," Shamp stated.
Shamp's Argument
Shamp argues that adding fluoride to public water supplies constitutes a mandatory medical intervention, in contrast to voluntary fluoride options such as toothpaste or dental treatments. She contends that water fluoridation removes individual choice regarding fluoride consumption across all age groups.
Shamp frames the issue as one of personal freedom and medical autonomy, suggesting that health-related decisions should be made by individuals rather than implemented through public water systems. SB 1019 would prohibit the artificial fluoridation of water in the state.
This is not a new issue, as similar legislation has been introduced in states such as Utah and Florida. Shamp also raises financial concerns, emphasizing that water fluoridation requires significant spending on chemicals, equipment, and maintenance, and suggests these funds could be budgeted to other priorities.
"With support from leaders like Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., we can establish a national standard for clean, unadulterated water. Together, we can remove these chemicals from our water and return control to the people, making Arizona fluoride-free," Shamp concluded.
