Fluoridation of Yorktown’s Water Suspended

YORKTOWN, N.Y. (September 26, 2024) –Yorktown Supervisor Ed Lachterman ordered the suspension of water fluoridation in the Town today, citing a recent federal court ruling.

U.S. District Judge Edward M. Chen ruled on Tuesday that the current standard for water fluoridation in the U.S., set at 0.7 mg/L, presents an “unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment.” The decision emphasized the potential risks to vulnerable populations, including children, leading Supervisor Lachterman to take immediate action.

“In light of this federal ruling and the long-standing concerns expressed by many Yorktown residents, I have decided to suspend water fluoridation as a precautionary measure,” said Lachterman. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of our community, and we believe it is prudent to pause fluoridation to further assess its potential impacts.”

Yorktown will continue to monitor guidance from federal and state agencies and act accordingly to protect public health.

Yorktown’s leadership will engage with public health experts to ensure that any future decisions on water treatment practices prioritize the safety and health of all residents, particularly those identified as potentially more vulnerable to fluoridation risks.

The suspension of water fluoridation means that Somers residents will also not receive fluoridation.

“Removing fluoride from Somers' drinking water would give residents the freedom to choose their own sources of fluoride, ensuring personal control over their health decisions. Additionally, concerns about potential long-term health risks from fluoride exposure support reevaluating its use in public water systems. Somers applauds Yorktown for making this decision,” said Somers Supervisor Robert Scorrano.

The Northern Westchester Joint Water Works began adding fluoride to Yorktown’s water last month after a seven-year pause. The fluoridation resumed because of upgrades to the Amawalk and Catskill Treatment Plants to meet more stringent health and safety requirements. Both treatment facilities began fluoridating the water supply, using 20-23% Hydrofluorosilicic Acid, at a target dosage of 0.7mg/l.