The bill amends existing laws regarding the fluoridation of public water systems in Arkansas, allowing residents of counties served by such systems to vote on whether to fluoridate their water. It introduces a new section, 14-116-108, which outlines the process for holding an election on this issue. Residents can initiate an election through a petition signed by at least five percent of the voters from the last county clerk election or by a majority vote from the county's quorum court. The election must occur at the next general election, and if fluoridation is voted against by the majority, the public water system must cease fluoridation within 30 days of the election results.

Additionally, the bill modifies Arkansas Code 20-7-136(b) to clarify that while water system entities are responsible for maintaining fluoride levels, they may choose to prohibit fluoridation if the majority of voters decide against it in the election. The results of the election will take precedence over any prior decisions made by the water system's board regarding fluoridation. This legislation aims to give local voters more control over the fluoridation of their water supply.

Statutes affected:
SB 468: 20-7-136(b)