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HB 2471

Water - As introduced, enacts the "Tennessee Fluoride-Free Water Act" to prohibit public water systems from adding fluoride to drinking water, prohibit sales of bottled water containing added fluoride, and requires certain actions for naturally occurring fluoride that exceeds certain levels in drinking water and bottled water. - Amends TCA Title 47, Chapter 18; Title 53 and Title 68, Chapter 221.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Susan Lynn

Tennessee bill prohibits adding fluoride to public water and fluoridated bottled water, requiring removal of naturally elevated fluoride levels despite public health organization support for fluoridation's safety and effectiveness.

P2C, ref. to Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee - Government Operations for Review
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Bill Summary · HB 2471

Legislative bill overview

HB 2471 would prohibit Tennessee public water systems from adding fluoride to drinking water and ban the sale of bottled water with added fluoride. The bill also requires specific management protocols for naturally occurring fluoride levels that exceed established thresholds in both municipal and bottled water supplies.

Why is this important

Water fluoridation is a decades-long public health practice credited by medical organizations with reducing tooth decay, particularly in children. This bill would eliminate that practice in Tennessee, potentially affecting dental health outcomes while also creating compliance and enforcement challenges for water utilities and bottled water producers operating across state lines.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health consensus conflict: Major health organizations (CDC, ADA, WHO) support water fluoridation as safe and effective, while opponents cite concerns about individual choice and perceived risks
  • Naturally occurring fluoride management: The bill requires action on naturally-occurring fluoride but lacks clarity on removal costs, technology feasibility, and whether systems can realistically meet proposed thresholds
  • Interstate commerce complications: Bottled water regulations may conflict with federal oversight and create logistical issues for multi-state producers; some naturally fluoridated water sources cannot easily be altered

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

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