The International Code Council announced its support of U.S. Senate bill S.3037, which would establish a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plumbing research laboratory to advance plumbing technology and modernize the nation’s aging water infrastructure. Introduced by Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois) and Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), the legislation is a companion bill to H.R.301 – NIST Plumbing Research Act of 2017 – introduced by Congressman Matt Cartwright (D-Pennsylvania) to the U.S. House of Representatives in early 2017.

The bill would direct the NIST to conduct a review of existing research and establish a laboratory to conduct research on plumbing related to the water distribution system for homes and businesses. The research facility would study water safety, security, efficiency, sustainability and resilience.

“After the lead water crisis in Flint, Mich., sustained drought in the western U.S. and concerns about Legionella in our water supply, this bill is especially important,” said ICC CEO Dominic Sims, CBO. “Together with our members, partners and supporters, the Code Council is committed to continuing to improve the research, implementation and efficiency of water systems in the U.S. and around the world.”