LANSING — State Rep. John Cherry (D-Flint) has introduced House Bill 4175 to lower the acceptable limit of lead in pipes in order for them to be labeled “lead-free.” While lead-free pipes are required for all new construction and plumbing projects in Michigan, the current definition allows for pipes made from up to 8 percent lead. Cherry’s bill would amend the definition of lead-free in the state construction code to ensure that pipes, pipe fittings and other plumbing fixtures contain no more than 0.25 percent lead.
“When water chemistry is not properly adjusted, as the case was in Flint, lead can leach out of pipes and reach homes at hazardous levels,” said Cherry. “We owe it to the families of our communities to be proactive with safety measures and address these situations before they can occur again. Public health cannot be a partisan issue and I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to better ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Michiganders.”
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