HB 1068-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Finds that it is in the public interest for the registered voters affected by a fluoridation proposal to make the final decision on whether to fluoridate a public water system as defined by RCW 70.116.030. The legislature further finds that fluoridation decisions are best made by voters prior to the addition of fluoride to public water systems.

Provides that a local board of health shall not authorize the fluoridation of a public water system as defined by RCW 70.116.030 unless: (1) A majority of the members of a local board of health vote to request the county legislative authority to cause a proposition of fluoridation of a public water system to be submitted to the registered voters residing within the area described in the board's proposition of fluoridation at a general or special election; and

(2) Following an election as provided in this subsection, a majority of the votes cast on the proposition are in favor of fluoridation.