State Senator Christopher J. Ryan (SD-50) announced the passage of Senate Bill S.8283A, legislation that would require all New York municipalities to notify residents at least 90 days before the municipality plans to cease water fluoridation. 

The Center of Disease Control (CDC) recognizes water fluoridation as one of the great public health advancements of the 20th century, as it has been proven to reduce tooth decay by roughly 25% in children and adults. However, in recent years some New York municipalities have stopped fluoridating their water supply with public notice or clear explanation. Notably, the City of Buffalo stopped fluoridating their water in 2015 and residents remained largely unaware for nearly a decade. Now, members of the Federal Administration have encouraged the CDC to stop recommending water fluoridation.

“Residents deserve to know when significant changes are being made to their public water supply,” said Senator Ryan. “Water fluoridation has long been recognized as a safe, effective and cost-efficient public health measure that helps improve dental health. Regardless of the differing opinions on the matter, constituents should receive ample notice and a clear explanation before a municipality decides to discontinue fluoridation. This legislation promotes transparency, ensures the public has an opportunity to be informed, and helps communities make decisions based on facts and public input.”

S.8283A specifies that municipalities must notify the public through local newspapers, the municipality’s website, and all owned social media pages. This bill passed the Senate on June 2. It has now passed both houses and will go to the Governor to be signed or vetoed.