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SB 474

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS; AND TO ALLOW THE BOARD OF A PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM TO PROHIBIT FLUORIDATION OF THE WATER IN THE PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Duffield and 3 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 474 aimed to empower local water boards in Arkansas to prohibit fluoride in drinking water, allowing communities to tailor health practices to their needs.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · SB 474

Summary of Senate Bill 474

Bill Number: SB 474
Title: To Amend the Law Concerning Public Water Systems; and to Allow the Board of a Public Water System to Prohibit Fluoridation of the Water in the Public Water System.
Status: Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: March 17, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 474 aimed to amend existing laws governing public water systems in Arkansas, specifically regarding the fluoridation of drinking water. The primary intent of the bill was to grant the governing board of a public water system the authority to prohibit the addition of fluoride to the water supply, thereby allowing local entities greater control over water treatment practices.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed the following significant changes to Arkansas Code § 20-7-136:

  • Fluoride Control: The existing requirement that entities controlling water systems maintain fluoride levels as established by the Department of Health would remain in place, except for one key provision:

    • Local Authority: The board of a public water system would have the option to elect to prohibit fluoridation of the water it supplies. This change would empower local boards to make decisions based on community preferences or health considerations.

Impact

  • Affected Entities: The bill would directly impact public water systems across Arkansas, including municipalities, counties, and other entities responsible for water supply. It would provide them with the discretion to decide whether to fluoridate their water.

  • Community Health Considerations: The decision to fluoridate water has been a topic of debate regarding dental health benefits versus potential health risks. This bill would allow communities to tailor their water treatment practices according to local health priorities and public opinion.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 17, 2025: SB 474 was filed and read for the first time. The rules were suspended, and it was read a second time before being referred to the Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee in the Senate.

  • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not advance for further consideration or voting.

Conclusion

While SB 474 aimed to provide local boards of public water systems with the authority to prohibit fluoridation, it ultimately did not progress through the legislative process. The bill reflects ongoing discussions about public health policy and local governance in the management of water resources.

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

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