Already, some cities across the country have tossed fluoride from their water, and other municipalities are considering doing the same. A few months ago, a federal judge ordered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to regulate fluoride in drinking water because high levels could pose a risk to kids’ intellectual development.

HB81, a bill that bans fluoride in Utah's public water systems, raises concerns about impacts on underserved communities. Oral health professionals warn the bill could increase dental costs and worsen access to care for low-income residents.

Utah is on the verge of becoming the first state to prohibit cities and towns from adding fluoride to their public water supply. The Utah Senate on Friday voted 18-8 to give final approval to HB81, sponsored by state Rep.

The Utah Legislature has approved a bill that bans adding fluoride to public water systems. The Utah Senate on Friday voted 18-8 to give final legislative approval to HB81, sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Gricius,

Utah appears to be the first state ready to put a full ban on fluoride in public water systems under a bill that doesn't allow cities or communities to decide whether to add the cavity-preventing mineral.