ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The City of St. Petersburg will cease adding fluoride to its public drinking water system starting the week of June 16, 2025, as it depletes its existing supplies. This action is a direct result of the newly enacted Florida Senate Bill 700, which mandates that all municipalities must stop the practice by July 1, 2025.
For decades, St. Petersburg has adjusted the fluoride levels in its water supply, a practice widely endorsed by public health organizations for its proven benefits in preventing tooth decay. However, the new state law, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, now prohibits local governments from adding fluoride to public water systems.
READ: Pinellas County Offers Residents Free Sandbags To Prepare For Hurricane Season
In a statement on Tuesday, St. Petersburg Mayor Kenneth T. Welch addressed the impending change, assuring residents of the city’s continued commitment to water quality and public health.
“The City is working to implement statutorily required changes to our water system by July and these changes will not impact the overall water quality and safety,” said Mayor Welch. “Despite these changes, my administration remains dedicated to public health and the benefits of optimal fluoridation. As we work with community partners to explore ways that help impacted residents maintain their dental health, we will continue to provide updates and resources.”
The city emphasized that its water treatment processes will continue to meet or exceed all federal and state guidelines from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Florida Department of Health. The legislation does not mandate the removal of naturally occurring fluoride, which is present in St. Petersburg’s water source. The city will continue to monitor these natural fluoride levels to ensure they remain within safe parameters.
READ: Reel In The Fun: Florida Offers License-Free Freshwater Fishing For Father’s Day Weekend
The statewide ban has been a point of contention. Proponents of the bill have framed it as a matter of individual liberty, arguing against what they term “forced medication.”
Conversely, major health organizations, including the American Dental Association, have expressed strong opposition to the law, citing decades of research that demonstrates the safety and effectiveness of community water fluoridation in reducing cavities, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.
In light of the cessation of water fluoridation, the City of St. Petersburg is encouraging residents to take proactive steps to maintain their oral health. Recommendations include using fluoride-containing toothpaste and mouth rinses, scheduling regular dental check-ups, limiting the consumption of sugary foods and drinks, and consulting with dental professionals about the potential need for supplemental fluoride treatments.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
