CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) -- Several Nevada dentists urged lawmakers Wednesday to pass a measure that would require the Truckee Meadows Water Authority to fluoridate water in the Reno area.

The Assembly Health and Human Services Committee heard emotional testimony on SB311, which has been opposed by conservative activists suspicious of government fluoridation programs and supported by health care officials and professionals.

The water authority estimates it would cost about $5 million to start fluoridation and about $1.5 million a year to continue the program. Water bills in Washoe County, encompassing Reno, would increase 50 to 75 cents a month for most homes and businesses.

Nevada Dental Association representative Joel Glover backed the bill, saying a decrease in dental problems and dental costs seen in the Las Vegas area since water fluoridation began there in 2000 are reasons to fluoridate Washoe County water supplies.

Laurie Yarborough of the Nevada Clean Water Coalition opposed the measure. She said that fluoride is dangerous because it can accumulate in the body over time, causing a number of health problems that dental professionals didn't mention.

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