Senate Bill No. SLS 25RS-47 aims to amend existing laws regarding public water systems in Louisiana, specifically addressing the fluoridation of water. The bill repeals the mandatory fluoridation program previously established by the Louisiana Department of Health and introduces a requirement that any fluoridation of public water systems must be approved through a local election. This means that at least 15% of registered voters in the affected precincts must sign a petition to initiate a local election, where a majority vote is needed to authorize fluoridation. Additionally, the bill clarifies that public water systems are not required to remove naturally occurring fluoride from their water.

The bill also amends R.S. 40:5.11(A) and (B) to eliminate previous mandates related to maintaining optimal fluoride levels for dental health, which included requirements for public water systems with significant service connections. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation shifts the decision-making power regarding water fluoridation from a state-mandated program to local governance, allowing communities to have a direct say in the matter.

Statutes affected:
SB2 Original:
SB2 Engrossed: 40:11(A)
SB2 Reengrossed: 40:11(A)