Bill > HB1684

This bill aims to improve public health in Washington by addressing the issue of fluoridation in drinking water. It finds that providing optimal levels of fluoride in public water systems is a cost-effective way to reduce dental health disparities, especially among low-income and minority communities. The bill requires water systems serving 5,000 or more people to analyze the costs of implementing water fluoridation, and it directs the state Board of Health to develop rules to facilitate and support water fluoridation. The bill also creates a program within the Department of Health to provide engineering assistance to water systems for fluoridation upgrades. Additionally, the bill requires water systems to notify customers before discontinuing fluoridation and mandates the Department of Health to conduct an oral health equity assessment to identify unmet needs and develop recommendations to increase access to community water fluoridation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1684&Year=2021&Initiative=false