The Republican-controlled statehouse sent the bill to Gov. Spencer Cox’s (R) desk last week after it passed both chambers largely along party lines.

Commissioner Jimmy Burry, a proponent of fluoridation, expressed disappointment, viewing the decision as an erosion of city rights by state influence.

Both Davis and Weber counties have previously voted to introduce fluoride into drinking water by a vote of the citizens, as has Brigham City. But Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore, R-Sandy, emphasized the bill allows people to go to a pharmacist to get fluoride supplements for dental care.