SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah will become the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water, despite widespread opposition from dentists and national health organizations. Republican Gov. Spencer Cox said he would sign legislation that bars cities and communities from deciding whether to add the mineral to their water systems.

The association noted that about 50% of Utah residents reside in those two counties that currently add fluoride to water. It cited Utah Department of Health and Human Services dat

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (Rep.) plans to sign a bill from his state's House and Senate that would ban adding fluoride to public water systems. If Cox signs the bill, H.B. 81, it would go into effect on May 7.

Governor Spencer Cox is set to approve Utah’s ban on fluoride in public water despite longstanding public health support for fluoridation. Experts warn the move could lead to more cavities, especially in vulnerable communities.