The Miami-Dade commission has postponed the debate over whether to keep or remove fluoride from the county's tap water. Originally scheduled for today's meeting, the topic was absent from the agenda, delaying a decision on the controversial issue, according to WSVN.
As reported by CBS News, Florida's Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo previously presented arguments to the Health and Safety Committee, claiming fluoride may pose risks when consumed in water. He stated, "Fluoride is neural toxic, also that it's toxic to the thyroid and other glands, but particular to the neurologic effect. We have populations that are very vulnerable that we care about as a society," referencing concerns about neurodevelopment in children.
In contrast, many medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association, support water fluoridation, citing its safety and benefits in preventing tooth decay. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention consider fluoridation one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.
The commission's decision to delay follows Dr. Ladapo's stance, which has not yet led to formal action. If the measure were passed, it would require the Water and Sewer Department to stop adding fluoride within 30 days. Seven of the 13 commissioners would need to approve the removal, but Mayor Daniella Levine Cava could veto the legislation, requiring nine votes to override.
For now, the fluoride status quo remains, with no new date set for a discussion or vote. Mayor Levine Cava has praised the benefits of fluoridation but has not yet taken a stance on how she would address the potential change.
