REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON THE COSTS AND BENEFITS OF REQUIRING WATER SUPPLIERS IN THE STATE TO ADJUST FLUORIDE LEVELS IN THEIR WATER SYSTEMS TO MEET THE OPTIMAL FLUORIDE LEVEL FOR COMMUNITY WATER FLUORIDATION AS ESTABLISHED BY THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES.

This bill requests the Hawaii Department of Health to study the costs and benefits of requiring water suppliers to adjust fluoride levels to meet national standards for community water fluoridation. The measure directly affects public water systems in the state and aims to address high rates of tooth decay by evaluating whether mandated fluoride adjustments would improve oral health outcomes. The study would analyze financial impacts, health benefits, and operational considerations for water providers, with results to be reported to the Legislature by early 2027. This is a procedural resolution that initiates research rather than implementing immediate policy changes.