WASHINGTON, D.C., March 9, 2007 (VNS) – The Vinyl Institute today welcomed passage of bipartisan legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives that renews the nation’s commitment to financing state wastewater infrastructure projects.

According to Tim Burns, president of the Vinyl Institute, “Passage of this $14 billion funding measure to boost the Clean Water State Revolving Fund is a crucial new public investment that must be managed wisely.”

“The quality of the nation’s health and environment depend on sound decisions about the next generation of piping and wastewater systems to be installed.”

Burns noted that PVC vinyl piping has proven to be the most efficient, safe and cost-effective option for both drinking water and wastewater pipe systems. It uses less energy, resists corrosion and leaks, and has a significantly longer life than other pipe materials, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

The Reuters news service reported January 23 that rust from aging metal pipes is currently the biggest threat to the nation’s drinking water, posing “a rising health threat to consumers.”

“Abating pollution from sewer lines is important in protecting the nation’s public health, but it is not the only action needed,” Burns said. “Parallel federal legislation to reinvest in drinking water infrastructure is also critically needed. The health of our families depends on being able to drink safe water. Fixing our leaking water pipes is a matter of public trust.”

According to recent studies, an estimated 700 water main breaks occur each day in North America and more than two trillion gallons of water are lost annually because of corroded water pipes. For municipalities, this means almost $3 billion in lost revenue each year.