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

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.

Utah is gearing up to make history as the first state to ban fluoride in public water systems if Gov. Spencer Cox signs a bill to prohibit the addition of the tooth decay-fighting mineral. If signed into law,