When:
The federal law took effect Jan 4, 2014.
Where:
The federal law will address the lead content based on the below calculation for lead in plumbing products. All States and territories will be understood to be minimally under the federal law’s jurisdiction. The federal law does not limit an individual state from passing bills or requiring enforcement of its own beyond the federal law. California, Vermont, Massachusetts and Louisiana have all passed state bills that speak similarly to the federal law. Those states bills have already been enforced or are expediting enforcement before the Jan 2014 date.
Why:
The federal no lead law’s purpose is to reduce the lead content within a plumbing system’s pipe and fittings which are intended for human consumption. The EPA has listed reasons to decrease lead to the proposed <0.25% level including: mental and physical developmental delays in children as well as high blood pressure and kidney problems in adults.
What products the Law will affect:
The no lead law will affect plumbing system components or the sale of the same within systems that will convey water anticipated to be used for human consumption.
Who:
This law will affect anyone who is introducing plumbing products into commerce for the explicit use within potable plumbing systems where human consumption is anticipated. This includes Sioux Chief and other mfg companies, wholesalers and contractors.
How (Regulatory enforcement):
The EPA has issued Frequently Asked Questions and their answers as a no lead product implementation aid. The EPA will be the governmental body that will establish the monitoring and testing that this transition requires as well as how this law will be enacted and governed. Exact monitoring or auditing procedures have not been laid out by the EPA.