WIPPES Act Passes U.S. House of Representatives

The U.S. House of Representatives last week passed the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environments Safety (WIPPES) Act (H.R. 2964).

According to INDA, the nonwoven fabrics association, “This bipartisan legislation is intended to address the growing problem of sewer system clogs caused by improper disposal of consumer wipes that are not intended to be disposed of in toilets.”

This federal solution is the result of collaboration with wastewater operators and similar legislation has been passed in seven states. The WIPPES Act aims to create a national standard based on existing state laws to ensure non-flushable wipes will carry prominent ‘Do Not Flush’ labeling on packaging, according to legislation.

“ISSA has been a big supporter of this legislation and is pleased to see that is overwhelming passed the U.S. House of Representatives,” said John Nothdurft, ISSA Director of Government Affairs. “The cleaning industry manufactures, distributes, and uses wipes frequently in buildings, and we are appreciative of the bill sponsors, industry partners, and INDA for this commonsense approach to helping make ‘Do Not Flush’ labeling a reality nationwide.”

The bill now goes to the U.S. Senate Science, Commerce, and Energy Committee for consideration.