9-year-old Toby Ramen of Monroe testifies during a hearing concerning the banning of fluoride in drinking water. (photo courtesy of Louisiana House of Representatives)
On a 10-5 vote, the House Health and Welfare committee rejected a bill by Houma Sen. Mike Fesi that sought to ban fluoride in public drinking water systems. Dentists testified against the bill saying it would increase tooth decay, Fesi fought back against that argument.
“When, there’s no really proven effects where the fluoride, even through the FDA, has been proven fact that this takes place in saving our teeth,” Fesi said.
Fesi says natural fluoride is different from the fluoride being put in the drinking water.
“The fluoride they’re putting in our water is a hazardous waste byproduct, which says it’s poisonous. So do we want to continue, as a state, putting poison in our water?” Fesi asked.
Opponents, including 9-year-old Toby Ramen from Monroe, defended fluoride as safe, effective, and essential for public health as well as helping fight chronic diseases.
“Louisiana and the ADA says that dental disease is one of the most common chronic diseases. Five times more common than asthma,” Ramen said.
Ramen ended his testimony saying if fluoride is taken out of drinking water, then every child should be able to see a dentist at no cost.
“Our future matters. I want to – I want my smile to shine as bright as the sun, not empty like a cave. Please vote no for Senate Bill 2. Thank you (applause),” Ramen said.
The bill, which received Senate approval, would have allowed parishes to reintroduce fluoride only through a petition and special election.
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