WPCA notified of fluoride chemical shortage tied to international supply issues

Members were told that fluoride chemical supplies used for fluoridation are strained and that disruptions in the Middle East — referenced in the discussion as linked to the war in Iran — are a contributing factor. The chair reported Grama Utilities is rationing supply to stay within state averages and said the state has been communicating guidance to systems coping with shortages.

"Believe it or not, the war in Iran is causing supply shortages for chemicals for fluoridation," the chair (speaker 1) said. Committee members and staff discussed alternative suppliers, the shrinking market for fluoride, and the state's flexibility in enforcement while systems try to maintain required averages. The WPCA said it will monitor supplies and follow state guidance if shortages persist.