The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has initiated an accelerated review process to evaluate safe fluoride levels in drinking water. This move is part of the Trump administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, as noted in a notice released in the Federal Register on Wednesday.
The final toxicity assessment from the agency will help inform any changes to the fluoride drinking water standard outlined in the Safe Drinking Water Act. It will also assist the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in their guidance regarding fluoride levels in drinking water.
Removing fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, from drinking water is a key goal of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement, which is backed by Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
This initiative has gained prominence during Trump’s presidency, with Kennedy—known for his anti-vaccine stance—pushing MAHA priorities, such as rolling back childhood vaccination recommendations, which has drawn criticism from major medical organizations.
Kennedy has expressed opposition to water fluoridation, arguing without substantial scientific backing that it may be linked to various health issues, including cancer.
Last year, Kennedy indicated a plan to reconvene a group of independent health experts to reassess fluoride recommendations and direct the CDC to cease endorsing fluoride in drinking water.
In May, the FDA announced its intention to pull fluoride supplements for children from the market.
The American Dental Association continues to advocate for community water fluoridation, highlighting studies that demonstrate a reduction of more than 25 percent in tooth decay for both children and adults.
A federal judge ordered the EPA in 2024 to strengthen its fluoride regulations, particularly concerning the potential impact on children’s IQ.
Last April, the agency declared it would expedite the next health assessment on fluoride under the Safe Drinking Water Act, a requirement for regular reviews of drinking water standards every six years.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin faces pressure from MAHA leaders to align the agency’s actions more closely with their goals, which include managing pesticide use and minimizing chemical exposure.
The EPA is open to public comments for 30 days, and the draft assessment will undergo external peer review, as indicated in the notice.
