Water utility announces it's ditching fluoride—then reveals it did so years ago

Central Alabama Water (CAW) sparked controversy by announcing on March 20 that it was discontinuing water fluoridation for Birmingham residents, citing aging equipment and raising questions about long-term health effects. The utility suggested residents could use fluoride toothpaste instead. However, a spokesperson later revealed to local news that three of its water treatment plants had actually stopped fluoridating water much earlier—in January 2023, August 2023, and March 2024—meaning most residents had been without fluoridated water for up to two years without any public notification.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin responded furiously on social media, accusing CAW of breaking a state law requiring 90-day written notice for such changes and failing the promise of transparency. He noted that current CEO Jeffrey F. Thompson was also a leader in the utility's previous board structure, implying prior knowledge. The City of Birmingham has now filed a lawsuit against CAW, requesting an emergency court order to resume fluoridation. The city argues the removal threatens dental health, especially for low-income residents and children lacking access to dental care, while health experts warn it could lead to millions more decayed teeth.