U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Lee Zeldin, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator, were in Salt Lake City to acknowledge Utah’s passage of three key bills, including one that makes Utah the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water. Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy” initiative aims to address health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer linked to additives in food. He emphasized the importance of improving Americans’ health, citing alarming trends in fertility and cancer rates among young people.
Kennedy has long advocated against fluoride in drinking water, citing studies linking it to health risks, including lower IQ in children. The EPA is currently reviewing these studies to determine appropriate actions. Despite opposition from the Utah Dental Association, which supports the use of fluoride for dental health, Kennedy stressed the need to prioritize children’s well-being and follow the “do no harm” principle.
Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz praised Utah’s leadership in passing these controversial bills and highlighted the state’s willingness to lead on health issues. The fluoride bill, sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Gricius, aims to give residents more choice regarding fluoride consumption. The new law allows parents to obtain fluoride supplements from a pharmacist without a prescription while protecting the rights of those who choose not to consume fluoride.
While other states like Florida, Nebraska, and Arkansas are also considering regulations on fluoridated water, Utah’s bold steps have set an example for others to follow in prioritizing public health and personal choice.
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