Led by Representative Lois Frankel (FL-22), Florida’s Democratic congressional delegation introduced a resolution affirming the importance of maintaining scientifically recommended fluoride levels in public drinking water and urging states to continue this proven public health practice. Last year, Florida became one of only two states to prohibit adding fluoride to public water systems—threatening to reverse decades of progress in preventing tooth decay and protecting public health.

“Fluoride is safe, effective, and backed by decades of science,” said Rep. Frankel. “Ignoring the experts puts children and families at risk. This resolution is about protecting public health and standing firmly on the side of science.”

"Every day, dental hygienists educate patients about the important role fluoride has in preventing disease,” said Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CAES, FADHA, and former ADHA President (2025-2026). “Community water fluoridation delivers that protection to entire populations in the United States, including those who don't have regular access to dental care. The American Dental Hygienists' Association thanks Representative Frankel for introducing a resolution that reinforces what evidence has shown for more than 75 years: fluoridated water prevents tooth decay and strengthens American public health." 

"As pediatric dentists and child health advocates, we see firsthand the transformative impact that community water fluoridation has on a child’s smile and their overall well-being. This legislation is a vital step forward,” said Thomas G. Ison, DMD, President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). “It recognizes water fluoridation for what it truly is: a safe, effective, and foundational public health intervention that levels the playing field for oral health. It proactively encourages states and local communities to maintain optimal, recommended levels of fluoride in water, ensuring our collective efforts are backed by science. A child's oral health isn't just about what happens in dental chairs — what happens throughout the day at home and school to prevent disease is critically important. We applaud the introduction of this legislation during National Children's Dental Health Month, and we look forward to continued partnership with lawmakers at the national, state, and local levels to move closer to a future where preventable tooth decay is a thing of the past for every child." 

“AADOCR strongly supports community water fluoridation as a safe, effective, and evidence-based public health measure that prevents tooth decay and improves oral health across the lifespan,” said the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR). “Decades of rigorous research confirm its safety and its vital role in reducing oral health disparities. We commend Representative Frankel for introducing this resolution and for her leadership in reaffirming this cornerstone of public health.” 

“Community water fluoridation remains one of the most studied and successful public health initiatives in our nation’s history,” said the American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD). “The science is clear—it is safe, effective, and one of the most cost-efficient ways to prevent tooth decay across the lifespan.  At AAPHD, we are committed to advancing evidence-based policies that promote health equity. Community water fluoridation does exactly that—it reaches everyone, regardless of age, income, or access to dental care. It is a smart investment in prevention and a cornerstone of a healthier future for all.” 

Community water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by about 25 percent and has been recognized by the CDC as one of the greatest public health achievements of the last century. Tooth decay remains one of the most common chronic diseases—especially affecting children and families with limited access to dental care.

The resolution recognizes fluoridation as a safe and cost-effective public health measure, encourages states and local communities to maintain recommended fluoride levels, and supports continued education and investment in oral health.

The resolution:

• Recognizes community water fluoridation as a safe, effective public health intervention to prevent tooth decay and promote oral health;
• Encourages States and localities to initiate or maintain fluoridation of community water systems at optimal levels recommended by public health experts;
• Recognizes the role of public health professionals, dental providers, and community leaders in promoting evidence-based oral health initiatives;
• Supports continued research, education, and investment in community water fluoridation programs to improve the oral health of the public; and
• Recognizes “National Children’s Dental Health Month’’.

Rep. Frankel was joined by 11 original cosponsors: Reps. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Darren Soto (FL-09), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).

The resolution is supported by leading dental and public health organizations nationwide, including American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR), and the American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD)

For full text of the resolution, click here.

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