AB 1953 – Overview
AB 1953 would phase out lead from brass plumbing used to convey drinking water in water
utility distribution pipes and in consumer plumbing fittings and faucets. Beginning in 2010, only
the lead-free plumbing components meeting the AB 1953 0.25% lead standard could be sold in
California.
• Lead leaching into drinking water poses a serious health risk - there is no safe level
of lead, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Exposure to low
concentrations of lead can result in serious ailments, including learning impairment in
infants and reduced IQ. Unlike some other chronic diseases, 100% of lead poisoning is
caused by preventable environmental contaminants.
• AB 1953 would change existing law by reducing the lead allowed in plumbing used
to convey drinking water. AB 1953 changes the “lead free” definition to a 0.25%
weighted average of lead for pipes, fittings, and fixtures intended to convey or dispense
water for human consumption. Enforcement of the AB 1953 standard would occur in the
same way enforcement of the existing lead standard is carried out.
• The 0.25% lead standard is appropriate for drinking water plumbing. The 0.25%
standard is supported by the scientific studies, and major water agencies, and is
recognized by the metal manufacturing industry as the standard for “no-lead” brass.
• The plumbing industry already makes a 0.25% lead brass. Over 29 companies
manufacture various plumbing components today that meet a 0.25% lead content
standard, or better; this list continues to grow.
• Lead-free alloys can be used to make plumbing parts that have historically contained
lead. For less than $5, an existing Chicago Faucet Company faucet was easily
modified by simply replacing two leaded-brass parts with AB 1953 stainless steel
replacements (View Products). This simple change reduced the lead content to half the allowable amount.
• At least nine major utilities already use the 0.25% lead standard. These regional and
metropolitan utilities serve over 16 million families and businesses across the country and
already use a 0.25% lead standard for the plumbing components they buy and install.
• AB 1953 savings far outweigh the minor costs of the new brass. These
implementation costs are expected to be more than offset by savings, estimated at $800
million per year, in health care and special education as well as in higher earnings for
non-lead exposed individuals.
• Support for AB 1953 is broad and diverse. AB 1953 is supported by members of
industry, health organizations, the environmental justice community, environmental
interest groups, the research community, municipalities, and public policy organizations
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