City Quietly Removes Water Fluoride, Sparking Outrage

Lack of transparency from utility raises concerns over public health impact

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:44am

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A minimalist design in the style of Keith Haring where a human tooth is defined entirely by vibrant neon lines against a dark background, conceptually illustrating the importance of fluoride in oral health.The quiet removal of fluoride from a city's water supply exposes the fragile balance between public health, transparency, and the power of misinformation.Today in Birmingham

The city of Birmingham, Alabama has filed a lawsuit against the Central Alabama Water (CAW) utility after it was revealed that the utility had quietly removed fluoride from the drinking water supply years ago without public notification. The move has sparked outrage over the lack of transparency and the potential public health consequences, especially for low-income residents and children.

Why it matters

Fluoride is recognized by the CDC as one of the top 10 public health achievements of the 20th century, as it helps prevent tooth decay. Removing it from the water supply without public input raises concerns about the erosion of trust in public institutions and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations.

The details

According to the lawsuit, CAW removed fluoride from the water supply several years ago, but failed to inform the public or the city government. The city argues this threatened the dental health of hundreds of thousands of residents, particularly those from low-income backgrounds who may not have access to other fluoride sources like toothpaste. Experts say fluoride in water is an essential part of a comprehensive approach to oral health, and cannot be fully replaced by other methods.

  • CAW removed fluoride from the water supply several years ago.
  • The city of Birmingham filed the lawsuit against CAW in 2026.

The players

Central Alabama Water (CAW)

The public utility that quietly removed fluoride from the drinking water supply without public notification.

City of Birmingham

The city government that filed a lawsuit against CAW over the fluoride removal, arguing it threatened public health.

Scott Tomar

An expert in population oral health who argues that fluoride toothpaste is not a full replacement for fluoridated water.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

A prominent figure who has made unsubstantiated claims about the dangers of fluoride, despite overwhelming scientific consensus on its benefits.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.