AR
Arkansas Senate Bill SB2

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB2

Introduced
11/20/24  
Refer
1/13/25  
Engrossed
4/8/25  
Refer
4/8/25  

Caption

To Repeal The Statewide Fluoridation Program; And To Remove The Mandate For Water Systems To Maintain A Fluoride Content.

Impact

The repeal of the statewide fluoridation program will fundamentally alter the regulatory landscape concerning public health measures related to water systems in Arkansas. By removing state mandates, local governments may pursue varied water quality practices based on community preferences and perceived needs. Proponents of the repeal argue that this will enhance local governance and enable measures more closely aligned with community values. However, this could result in significant variations in fluoride levels across the state, potentially impacting dental health in populations that either continue or discontinue fluoridation.

Summary

Senate Bill 2 (SB2) intends to repeal the statewide fluoridation program mandated for water systems in Arkansas. The bill seeks to eliminate the requirement for water systems providing service to five thousand or more people to maintain specific fluoride content levels as established by the Arkansas Department of Health. This proposed legislative measure will clear the way for local control over water fluoridation practices, allowing municipalities and other authorities to decide independently whether to fluoridate their water supply.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB2 may arise from differing opinions on fluoride's safety and benefits. Supporters may advocate for personal and local autonomy in determining health measures, while opponents might cite public health concerns, highlighting the established benefits of controlled fluoride levels in preventing tooth decay. The bill may elicit concerns about the effectiveness of dental health initiatives if certain areas opt out of fluoridation, potentially leading to increased oral health disparities. Thus, discussions will likely focus on balancing local decision-making authority with overarching public health goals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB386

To Repeal The Arkansas River Navigation System Fund; To Provide Additional Funding For The Arkansas Port, Intermodal, And Waterway Development Grant Program Fund; And To Create A Waterways Investment Income Tax Credit.

AR SB478

To Provide Additional Funding For The Arkansas Port, Intermodal, And Waterway Development Grant Program Fund; And To Create A Waterways Investment Income Tax Credit.

AR HB1022

To Repeal The Law Regarding The Oversight Of Retail Water Providers.

AR HB1706

Regarding Liquid Animal Waste Management Systems; And To Transfer The Authority Related To Liquid Animal Waste Management Systems From The Department Of Energy And Environment To The Department Of Agriculture.

AR SJR5

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution To Authorize A County, City, Town, Or Other Municipal Corporation To Fund And Administer A Water System Customer Assistance Program.

AR HB1343

To Allow The Contents Of A Teacher Preparation Program To Include Certain Content That Pertains To Evidence-based Trauma-informed Classroom Instruction Within Its Curriculum.

AR SB278

To Terminate The Arkansas Health And Opportunity For Me Program; And To Transfer All Beneficiaries In The Arkansas Home And Opportunity For Me Program To The Traditional Arkansas Medicaid Program.

AR SB376

To Amend The Law Concerning The Duties Of The Data And Transparency Panel; And To Develop A Shared Services Data Hub For Statewide Data Sharing.

AR HB1365

To Amend The Law Concerning Records Maintained By Scrap Metal Recyclers; And To Create Offenses For Theft Of A Catalytic Converter And Unauthorized Possession Of A Catalytic Converter.

AR SB465

To Create The Continuum Of Care Program Within The Department Of Human Services; And To Amend The Life Choices Lifeline Program To Clarify Language And Ensure Proper Administration Of The Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.