HI HR30

Requests the Hawaii Department of Health to study the costs and benefits of requiring water suppliers to adjust fluoride levels to meet the optimal level established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Currently only military bases in Hawaii add fluoride to water supplies, leaving approximately 89% of state residents without access to fluoridated drinking water.

Approximately 70% of Hawaii's children experience tooth decay, and the state sees thousands of hospital emergency visits annually for dental issues that routine care could have prevented.

Fluoridated drinking water reduces tooth decay by approximately 25% and is cited as a safe, cost-effective oral health measure used by most U.S. states and countries including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Singapore.

Department of Health must submit findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2027 Regular Session.