The Washington State Department of Health has been discussing the benefits and risks of fluoride in community water, a topic that has sparked debate since the 1940s. This conversation has resurfaced for planning purposes in case the federal government decides to ban fluoride.
Scientific evidence suggests fluoride is vital for oral health, though concerns about health risks for pregnant individuals and infants exist. The state of Washington is not planning to remove fluoride from its water supply. However, preparations are being made in case the Trump administration opts for a ban.
In the Tri-Cities area, specifically Pasco, the city council has been considering discontinuing the addition of fluoride to the city’s drinking water. Medical professionals have urged the council to review more than 75 years of data that demonstrate the safety and benefits of controlled fluoride levels in water.
A panel at the state level convened recently to discuss the broader implications. Lauren Jenks from the Washington State Department of Health highlighted a potential issue if the EPA changes its maximum contaminant limit.
“I think it is possible that the EPA could change their maximum contaminant limit if they move to .9. That would be a problem. For us, because our lack right now says that you can fluoridate at .7. But really, your range is .5 to .9, so we would already have to think about that,” Jenks said.
The discussion also referenced Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is not supportive of community water fluoridation.
According to a 2022 water system study by the City of Spokane, the city’s aquifer contains small amounts of naturally occurring fluoride, less than 0.1 milligrams per liter. While the panel reached a consensus on recommendations, no policy changes have been planned.
