House Bill 319 Alabama 2026 Session

Updated Feb 19, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Randy WoodRepresentative
Republican
Session: 2026 Regular Session
Title: Alabama Lead Ban Act; percentages of lead that constitute "lead-free" revised; city and county plumbing codes required to conform; certain applications exempted
Summary: HB319 would redefine 'lead-free' to 0.2% lead in solder/flux and a weighted average of 0.25% lead on wetted surfaces, require local plumbing codes to adopt the revision, and create exemptions for certain materials and uses, effective October 1, 2026.
What This Bill Does
It changes the lead-free limits for plumbing components and requires city and county codes to conform to the new definitions. It requires local codes to be updated to reflect the revision within 12 months after October 1, 2026. It adds exemptions from lead-free requirements for nonpotable uses, certain large components (two inches in diameter or larger), and specific equipment and appliances listed in the bill. It also includes non-substantive, technical updates to modernize the code language.

Who It Affects
Local governments and plumbing code officials who must revise and enforce plumbing codes to match the new lead-free standard and deadlines.
Manufacturers, distributors, plumbers, builders, and property owners who must ensure products meet the revised lead-free limits, while noting exemptions under Section 22-37-7.

Key Provisions
Redefines lead-free: solder/flux not exceeding 0.2% lead; wetted surfaces of pipes, fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures not exceeding a weighted average of 0.25% lead.
Local codes must conform to the revision and be amended within 12 months after October 1, 2026 (by Oct 1, 2027).
Exemptions from lead-free requirements for nonpotable uses, certain large-diameter components (2 inches in diameter or larger), and specific equipment such as toilets, urinals, clothes washers, emergency showers, eyewash devices, fire suppression sprinklers, and related items.
Non-substantive, technical updates to update code language to current style.
Effective date: October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 12, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Environmental Protection