FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 8, 2001

Contact: Rep. Dennis Arakaki Tel.: [phone]

FLUORIDATION BILLS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING

The House Committee on Health will revisit the issue of fluoridating public water systems as a means to improve dental health, according to Rep. Dennis Arakaki, committee chair. The hearing will be held Saturday, February 10, in the State Capitol Auditorium, starting at 9:00 a.m.

"Fluoridation of public water systems remains a controversial issue for policy makers," Arakaki acknowledged. "Compelling evidence suggests that fluoridation can be of immense benefit to overall oral health. Yet we recognize that a citizen could be deprived of the right to select from among various healthcare options if we mandate fluoridation."

Arakaki said he expects a large and spirited turnout for the hearing and has reserved the Capitol Auditorium until 3:30 p.m. to try and accommodate all testimony. Three out of the four bills scheduled address the fluoridation issue, including House Bill 1628, which would require the State Department of Health to provide free fluoride supplements to children three years old and under.

The hearing will also be broadcast over `Olelo community access television.

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