The
legislation reduces the lead standard for pipes, pipe fittings and plumbing fittings from
as much as 8.0 percent to 0.25 percent across the nation, and provides
for a 36-month implementation period.
Prior
to the final adjournment of the 111th Congress, the U.S. Senate approved the
Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Bill (S. 3874) by unanimous consent,
followed by the House of Representatives approving the bill on a 226-109 vote.
The
legislation provides for a 36-month implementation period, after which time
manufacturers and importers will be required to comply with the new, consistent
standard. This uniformly reduces the lead standard for pipes, pipe fittings and
plumbing fittings from as much as 8.0 percent to 0.25 percent across the
nation, which is consistent with the current laws in California, Vermont and
Maryland.
Sen.Barbara Boxer(D-Calif.), chair of the U.S. Senate
Environment and Public Works Committee, Sen.James Inhofe(R-Okla.) and other bipartisan representatives sponsored the bill. The Plumbing
Manufacturers International group and its members worked with the bipartisan
leadership of the Environment & Public Works Committee, which spurred the
introduction and approval of S. 3874.
This
included previously approved language from the Assistance, Quality and
Affordability Bill of 2010 (H.R. 5320), but as a stand-alone bill that imposed
no cost to the federal government.
“It
is an exciting victory, primarily for consumers, and also for the plumbing
manufacturing industry, as well as for wholesalers, retailers, contractors and
others involved with the production, distribution, sales and installation of
these products,” said PMI Executive DirectorBarbara C. Higgens.
“The effort reinforces our commitment to protecting the future of our national
and local water supply through water-efficient plumbing products and practices
that provide clean, safe, drinking water.”
The legislation was cleared
Dec. 17 for President Obama’s signature.
Congress Passes Legislation Reducing Lead in Drinking Water
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