Central Alabama Water Stops Fluoridation: Health Officials Alarmed

0:00It's March 25. You're listening to Birmingham News today, AI-powered local news. Central Alabama Water has not been adding fluoride to much of its drinking water for years, affecting three out of four filtration plants due to equipment problems. The utility, which rebranded from Birmingham Waterworks last year under new leadership, recently disclosed the issue. They also planned to stop fluoridation at the Remaining Shades Mountain Plan, citing cost and the need to replace old gear. Health officials were caught off guard by the news. For decades, they assumed the water had been properly fluoridated since 1982, but now they're raising alarms. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, especially in kids, since local water lacks enough naturally. Experts worry this gap hits low-income families and those without regular dental care, the hardest. The company says it's only fair to pause at all plants until fixes are in place. State leaders are pushing for quick action to protect public health.