State Senate OKs fluoridation for cities

— Members of the Arkansas Senate have approved a bill that would require the fluoridation of water in cities with more than 5,000 residents.

On a 25-7 vote, the Senate passed the bill Thursday morning and sent it to the House.

Supporters say the plan will help boost dental health in the state. The proposal by Democratic Sen. David Johnson of Little Rock would exempt cities that receive their water from another state.

The House is expected to vote Thursday afternoon on legislation that would require most health insurance companies to cover autism diagnoses and treatments for people 18 and younger. Supporters say the proposal would ease financial hardships for families struggling to pay for expensive treatments for autistic children. If passed, that bill would go to the Senate.

Upcoming Events