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D.C. Follows California, Vermont on Lead-Free Legislation
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Two District of Columbia council members have introduced an amendment to the D.C. Plumbing Code requiring pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings and fixtures contain no more than a weighted average of .25% lead with respect to wetted surface areas. The Safe Plumbing Act of 2009 also defines "Lead Free" as not containing more than 0.2% lead with respect to solder and flux. This mirrors legislation found in California and Vermont, which goes into affect in less than a few short months on January 1, 2010. Bill No. DC B18-452 is planned to go into affect one year later on January 1, 2011.
Considering the ongoing water quality issues Washington has faced in recent years, it's likely ongoing pressure from the community motivated politicians to move towards lead-free legislation. Our February 2009 posting, Did Chloramine Additives put 42,000 Children in D.C. at Risk?, reported elevated levels of lead were discovered in children's blood following the addition of a chloramine disinfectant to the water supply to kill bacteria. Chloramine treatment significantly increases the leaching of lead from supply pipes.
It's looking more and more like AB 1953 will be the legislation template for the balance of the country. The new bill is clearly a step in the right direction for D.C. residents, ensuring safer water and bringing peace of mind to the parents of young children. Check back periodically for updates on D.C and other state initiatives.
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