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SB 1141

Water - As introduced, decreases from 1.5 milligrams per liter to 0.4 milligrams per liter the threshold for the presence of fluoride in a public water system that requires an increase in the frequency of fluoride-level testing from quarterly to monthly; requires public water systems to cease adding fluoride to drinking water supplies by May 1, 2025, and provide written notice of cessation of fluoridation to customers. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 221, Part 7.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rusty Crowe

Tennessee bill mandates public water systems stop adding fluoride by May 2025, eliminating a major cavity-prevention public health measure for millions of residents.

Failed in Senate Energy, Ag., and Nat. Resources Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 1141

Legislative bill overview

SB 1141 would lower Tennessee's fluoride threshold in public water systems from 1.5 to 0.4 milligrams per liter, requiring more frequent testing. More significantly, it mandates that all public water systems cease adding fluoride to drinking water by May 1, 2025, and notify customers of this change.

Why is this important

Water fluoridation is a long-established public health practice credited with reducing tooth decay, particularly in children and low-income populations. This bill would eliminate that practice statewide, affecting millions of Tennesseans' access to fluoridated drinking water and potentially reversing decades of cavity prevention efforts in communities relying on municipal water supplies.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health consensus vs. individual choice: The CDC, ADA, and WHO support water fluoridation as safe and effective, but opponents cite concerns about forced medication and bodily autonomy
  • Equity implications: Low-income families with limited dental care access benefit most from fluoridated water; elimination may disproportionately affect their oral health outcomes
  • Short implementation timeline: May 1, 2025 deadline is extremely tight for water systems to implement changes, adjust infrastructure, and conduct public outreach
  • Cost burden: Removing fluoridation infrastructure and potential increased dental healthcare costs for vulnerable populations versus savings from eliminating fluoridation programs

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

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