Hawaii Senate Bill SCR62

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/11/25

Caption

Requesting The Director Of Health To Convene A Water Fluoridation Working Group.

Impact

If enacted, the resolution would establish a formal working groupthat includes representatives from various water supply departments within the state. This group would be tasked with identifying best practices for fluoridating drinking water, overcoming existing obstacles to implementation, and ensuring access to fluoride for the public. The working group's ultimate goal would be to submit a report of their findings and recommendations, potentially leading to further legislative measures aimed at enhancing oral health through water fluoridation.

Summary

SCR62 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that requests the Director of Health to convene a Water Fluoridation Working Group in the State of Hawaii. The resolution responds to significant public health concerns, particularly the lack of dental care insurance for many residents and poor oral health outcomes as evidenced by failing grades in recent oral health report cards from the Pew Center. The bill emphasizes the benefits of increasing fluoride concentration in public water supplies, as recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asserting that water fluoridation is a safe and cost-effective method to prevent tooth decay and improve dental health across communities.

Contention

While the resolution aims to promote public health, it may encounter contention regarding the concerns some community members have about the health effects of fluoride. Historically, water fluoridation has faced opposition based on claims regarding its safety and effectiveness. Opponents may argue that additional fluoride can have adverse health effects, which could lead to community pushback against mandatory fluoridation programs. Balancing public health initiatives with individual health concerns will likely be a critical aspect of the discussions within the newly convened working group.