The bill amends the Alabama Lead Ban Act by revising the definitions and percentages that constitute "lead-free" for solder, flux, and wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures. Specifically, it establishes that solder and flux must not contain more than 0.2 percent lead, while wetted surfaces must have a weighted average of no more than 0.25 percent lead. Additionally, the bill requires that city and county plumbing codes be updated to align with these new definitions and standards. The existing language in Sections 22-37-2 and 22-37-4 is updated for clarity and consistency, with the term "lead-free" being redefined to reflect these new thresholds.

Furthermore, the bill introduces Section 22-37-7, which outlines specific applications where the lead-free requirements do not apply, including certain plumbing fixtures and equipment used exclusively for nonpotable services, as well as larger plumbing components like toilets and fire hydrants that are two inches in diameter or larger. The bill mandates that all previously adopted plumbing codes inconsistent with the new definition of "lead-free" must be amended within 12 months after October 1, 2025. This act is set to take effect on that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-37-2
Engrossed: 22-37-7