Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety Act

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of H.R. 2964, the WIPPES Act.

The improper disposal of nonflushable wipes can damage critical plumbing and wastewater infrastructure and lead to environmental contamination and pollution.

A 2020 analysis by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies found that wipes result in approximately $441 million a year in additional operating costs for our clean water utilities.

Stakeholders across the country have expressed the need for manufacturers to clearly label their wet wipe products so consumers know how to properly dispose of them. H.R. 2964, the WIPPES Act, ensures that wipe manufacturers and other covered entities clearly and conspicuously label nonflushable wipes as such.

Requiring ``Do Not Flush'' labels on the packaging of nonflushable wipes sold in the United States will empower consumers to help protect our plumbing and wastewater infrastructure and reduce pollution and environmental contamination.

Mr. Speaker, again, this is an important bill in terms of protecting our clean water. I urge everyone to support it on a bipartisan basis.

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