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H 2548

An Act banning artificial fluoridation schemes

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Gaskey and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill would ban public water fluoridation statewide, eliminating a preventive dental health measure that serves millions while shifting cavity-prevention responsibility to individuals.

Accompanied a study order, see H5235
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Bill Summary · H 2548

Legislative bill overview

H 2548 would prohibit the artificial fluoridation of public water supplies in Massachusetts. The bill aims to eliminate what sponsors view as a public health intervention that should be a matter of individual choice rather than mandatory consumption through municipal water systems.

Why is this important

Water fluoridation affects millions of Massachusetts residents daily, as many municipalities add fluoride to reduce tooth decay. This bill represents a fundamental disagreement about public health authority: whether governments should implement population-wide preventive measures or leave such decisions to individuals and their dentists. The outcome could shift dental health outcomes and reshape how other states approach water treatment policies.

Potential points of contention

  • Scientific evidence divide: Major health organizations (ADA, CDC, WHO) support water fluoridation's safety and effectiveness for cavity prevention, while bill sponsors and some constituencies argue the evidence is contested or that mass medication without consent is problematic
  • Health equity implications: Removing fluoridation could disproportionately impact lower-income residents who have less access to alternative fluoride sources (dental care, fluoridated toothpaste) and experience higher rates of tooth decay
  • Municipal autonomy vs. state mandates: The bill removes local decision-making authority by banning a practice some communities have chosen; opponents may argue communities should retain this choice

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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