Bill > SB488

This bill requires water suppliers in Hawaii with 1,000 or more service connections to add fluoride to their public water systems at levels recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with an exemption for federal water suppliers. The bill aims to address Hawaii's high rates of tooth decay by implementing community water fluoridation, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers a cost-effective public health intervention. Specifically, water suppliers must periodically test their water systems for fluoride levels and report results to the Department of Health, which will provide technical assistance and training on fluoridation systems. The Department of Health must also submit annual reports to the legislature detailing fluoride concentration levels across state water systems. The legislative findings highlight that only 11% of Hawaii's population currently has access to fluoridated water, and the state has the highest prevalence of tooth decay among third graders in the United States. By mandating water fluoridation, the bill seeks to reduce cavities, lower emergency room visits for dental problems, and improve overall oral health for residents.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=488&year=2026