Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Health Care Committee

HB 2703

Brief Description:  Studying the costs and benefits of fluoride in public water supplies.

Sponsors:  Representatives Darneille, Skinner, Cody and Wood.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Requires the Department of Health to study the benefits of fluoridating the state=s public water supply systems.

Hearing Date:  2/7/02

Staff:  John Welsh (786‑7133).

Background:

Dental disease is prevalent among the state population, and there is a question whether the fluoridation of public water supply systems has an effect of reducing dental caries.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Health is required to study the costs and benefits of the fluoridation of public water supply systems as a means to prevent dental disease. The study is specifically to review medicaid and other public health costs by regions in the state to determine whether the incidence of treating dental caries in regions with fluoridation varies from those regions without fluoridation. The department must submit a report of its findings to the legislature by December 31, 2002.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not Requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.