As 2025 begins, state legislative sessions are in full swing, setting the stage for national policy priorities. By the end of January, 44 states will have convened their sessions, maintaining legislative majorities with few changes. Lawmakers across the country introduced 246,405 bills in the 2023-24 legislative sessions, marking an increase from previous years. The IAPMO Group’s Government Relations team is closely monitoring developments and preparing for the year ahead.
On the federal level, IAPMO is engaging with key stakeholders on legislative initiatives aimed at securing funding for leak repairs, incentivizing water-efficient construction, and expanding water filtration access. Additionally, IAPMO is advocating for changes to regulations classifying water treatment technologies as pesticidal devices. In November, IAPMO hosted a reception with the Congressional Global Water Security Caucus, highlighting the importance of water and sanitation. Collaborations with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and other agencies have strengthened industry involvement in addressing water contaminants. Looking internationally, IAPMO is coordinating a summit in Korea as part of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings, focusing on standardizing plumbing product markets. Further, federal awards from USAID and the Department of Commerce continue to support IAPMO’s testing and certification services in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
In California, IAPMO successfully advocated for ASSE Series 5000 and ASSE product certification inclusion in the draft Cross-Connection Policy Handbook, replacing Title 17. Efforts continue to ensure fair recognition of ASSE as an approved backflow prevention assembly tester certification organization. AB 249, which sought stricter lead standards in school drinking water, was vetoed due to funding concerns. A similar bill, AB 1851, introduced a pilot program for lead testing in schools and was successfully amended to require NSF/ANSI certified water filtration systems, but failed to advance due to budget constraints. Additionally, a letter was sent to the General Services Administration regarding Legionella detected in federal court buildings in San Diego, offering ASSE’s technical support.
In Colorado, legislation was passed to extend the state plumbing board’s functions through 2032 while maintaining ASSE 6020 references for medical gas installations. The law also mandates plumber licensing for backflow prevention device installation, except in stand-alone fire suppression systems. Additionally, efforts are being made to strengthen plumbing code enforcement and ensure compliance with industry standards across various projects in the state.
In Illinois, ASSE engaged with officials regarding Legionella detected at the YWCA Evanston/North Shore, offering resources to mitigate future outbreaks. Mayor Daniel Biss acknowledged ASSE’s outreach with gratitude.
In New Jersey, Sen. Teresa Ruiz’s Legionella bill was signed into law on Sept. 12; however, it does not include ASSE 12000 references. ASSE/IAPMO has submitted a letter urging its inclusion. Ongoing discussions with policymakers aim to incorporate industry-recognized standards in future water safety legislation.
In New Hampshire, regulatory updates to Env-Dw 505 now officially recognize ASSE 5110 certification for backflow prevention device inspectors and testers. The revised regulations took effect on Nov. 23. These updates mark a significant step toward ensuring higher standards in water safety and backflow prevention.
In New Mexico, HB 291 aimed to promote rainwater harvesting systems via tax incentives, with stakeholders advocating for ASSE 21000 inclusion. Due to the state’s short session, the bill failed to progress. Moving forward, advocates are exploring alternative legislative avenues to support sustainable water use practices in the state.
In Pennsylvania, Senate Bill 571 on Legionella mitigation remains stalled in committee. While it includes ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 188, it does not reference ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Standard 12080. A letter was sent urging its inclusion. Meanwhile, House Bill 2145 proposes requiring water filtration for Legionella mitigation. ASSE recommended adding specificity to filtration standards, ensuring compliance with NSF P231, NSF/ANSI Standard 244, and NSF/ANSI Standard 55 (Class A). Both bills remain pending. Additional outreach efforts are underway to educate lawmakers on the importance of adopting comprehensive water safety standards.
As the 2025 legislative sessions progress, ASSE and IAPMO remain committed to advocating for water safety, plumbing standards, and industry recognized certifications at both state and federal levels. The organization continues to build relationships with policymakers, industry leaders, and regulatory agencies to drive meaningful progress in water quality, plumbing code adoption, and public health initiatives.
