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, the results of the newly established elections will take precedence over any decisions made by the boards of public water systems regarding fluoridation. This ensures that the voice of the electorate is prioritized in determining the fluoridation of their water supply.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB468 V2 - 4-7-2025 03:51 PM: 20-7-136(b)
Old version SB468 Original - 3-17-2025 09:26 AM: 20-7-136(b)
SB 468: 20-7-136(b)