(Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday passed the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act, the result of a decade of advocacy by NACWA, the California Association of Sanitation Agencies, water sector partners, and manufacturers to improve labeling. 

The legislation directs the Federal Trade Commission – with guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – to issue regulations requiring wipes manufacturers to include clear, consumer-friendly “Do Not Flush” labeling on the packaging of wet wipes that are not designed to be flushed. 

“The damage from improperly flushed wet wipes and other non-flushable products have placed a costly burden on public wastewater utilities,” NACWA CEO Adam Krantz said. “Labeling these items is an important step in consumer education that will ultimately benefit utilities and their ratepayers by protecting critical wastewater infrastructure.” 

In the report “The Cost of Wipes on America’s Clean Water Utilities,” NACWA estimates that wipes result in about $441 million a year in additional operating costs at US clean water utilities. 

NACWA appreciates the lead sponsors of the legislation, Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Rep. Alan S. Lowenthal (D-Calif.). Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) are the lead sponsors of similar legislation in the Senate, and NACWA looks forward to working for quick passage of the bill in the Senate. 

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ABOUT NACWA 

For over 50 years, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) has been the nation’s recognized leader in legislative, regulatory, legal, and communications advocacy on the full spectrum of clean water issues. NACWA represents public wastewater and stormwater agencies of all sizes nationwide. Our unique and growing network strengthens the advocacy voice for the public clean water sector and helps advance policies to provide affordable and sustainable clean water for all. Our vision is to advance sustainable and responsible policy initiatives that help to shape a strong and sustainable clean water future. For more information, visit us at www.nacwa.org. 

Media Contact: 
Rahkia Nance | NACWA Communications Director 
(202) 533-1809, rnance@nacwa.org