Water utility hid fluoride removal for years

Birmingham, Alabama's water utility, Central Alabama Water (CAW), announced it was stopping fluoride addition to city water, citing equipment issues and unsubstantiated health concerns. However, it was later revealed that the utility had actually ceased fluoridation years prior at three different plants. This lack of transparency has drawn sharp criticism from Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, who alleges the utility violated state law by failing to provide the required 90-day public notice. The city has filed a lawsuit seeking to resume fluoridation, emphasizing the public health benefits, especially for children and low-income residents.