The United States Senate has passed a USD9.4 billion Water Resources Development Act. The measures in the Act include a provision long supported by Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) calling for authorisation of the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense programme, which encourages consumers to use water efficient toilets, taps and shower heads.

The Water Resources Development Act authorises nearly 30 infrastructure projects for navigation, port improvements, flood control and environmental restoration, as well as USD4.9 billion for drinking and clean water infrastructure over five years. It provides:

● USD220 million in emergency funding for communities such as Flint in Michigan which experiences lead contaminated water supplies

● USD70 million to finance costs for up to USD1 billion in secured loans for water infrastructure through the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act Fund at the US Environmental Protection Agency

● About USD17.5 million for a lead-exposure registry to monitor the effects on children

● USD2.5 million for an advisory committee to review ways to reduce lead exposure.

A 2015 study by PMI showed slow adoption of WaterSense products nationwide. “A recent study conducted by PMI shows that 75 percent of Americans are unfamiliar with the WaterSense programme,” said Barbara Higgins, PMI CEO/Executive Director. “Another survey we conducted showed concern among Americans regarding drinking water quality. We applaud the passage of this latest Senate bill which calls for the authorisation of the WaterSense programme and funding for needed infrastructural improvements.”