Austin to Continue With Fluoridation of Water

Austin will continue to fluoridate its drinking water after a proposal to end the practice failed before two committees.

Members of the Public Utilities Committee and the Health and Human Services Committee took no action Wednesday on the resolution. Councilman Don Zimmerman said he offered the proposal as a way to save the city money.

Critics said fluoridating drinking water does little to prevent tooth decay and poses health risks.

Public health experts said scientific research shows fluoridating drinking water is one of the best ways to combat tooth decay.

Austin began fluoridating its drinking water in 1973 after a public vote approving the practice. The city's average annual cost is about 38 cents per resident.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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