What Exactly is California Assembly Bill 1953?...

California Assembly Bill 1953 (AB1953) was signed into law September 30th, 2006 by State Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. The intent was to reduce the amount of lead in specific plumbing fixtures from its current regulated amount of no more than 8%, to a new standard not to exceed 0.25%. The bill takes effect January 1, 2010.

Specific language in the bill states... "No person shall introduce into commerce, for use in California, any pipe, pipe or plumbing fitting, or fixture intended to convey or dispense water for human consumption through drinking water or cooking that is not lead free. This includes kitchen faucets, bathroom faucets, and any other end-use devices intended to convey or dispense water for human consumption through drinking or cooking." (Read the entire bill -- Enter 2005-2006 Session; Bill 1953)

After January 2010, all California schools, businesses and homes will have faucets that are effectively obsolete due to the new law’s strict requirements. While some will wait until their current faucets break down or new parts are needed, it makes the most sense to replace old faucets now. Waiting until January 2010 will all but guarantee longer wait times as the onslaught of orders and inquiries pour in. Replace your faucets easily and quickly right now with trusted stainless steel lead-free compliant products from Fisher.

The State of Vermont Joins In with S.152

In addition to California's AB1953, the Vermont State Senate recently adoped Senate Bill S.152. This bill practically mirrors the new California standard. Language in the Vermont Bill states... "...no person shall sell or offer for sale in or into the state of Vermont, or use in the state of Vermont, solder or flux for plumbing containing more than 0.2 percent lead, or plumbing fixtures whose wetted surfaces contain more than a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead." The Vermont bill also goes into effect January 1, 2010.