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HD 3157

An Act relative to greywater recycling

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Cusack

Massachusetts establishes greywater recycling standards and permitting requirements, enabling residential and commercial systems to reduce potable water consumption for non-drinking uses.

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Bill Summary · HD 3157

Legislative bill overview

HD 3157 establishes a regulatory framework for residential and commercial greywater recycling systems in Massachusetts, allowing property owners to capture and reuse water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for non-potable purposes like toilet flushing and landscape irrigation. The bill sets plumbing codes, safety standards, and permitting requirements to govern these systems while protecting public health and water quality.

Why is this important

Massachusetts currently has no established standards for greywater systems, creating legal ambiguity for homeowners and businesses interested in water conservation. Greywater recycling can reduce potable water consumption by 30-50% in residential settings, lowering both water bills and municipal demand during droughts or supply constraints. Formalizing this practice could advance state sustainability goals while generating economic activity in green plumbing and water technology sectors.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health and oversight: Concerns about inadequate treatment, cross-contamination with drinking water systems, and whether inspection resources exist to enforce safety standards effectively
  • Municipal water utility impact: Water departments may oppose reduced revenue from lower consumption, and some argue the savings don't justify infrastructure changes in water-rich regions
  • Implementation costs: Property owners face upfront expenses for system installation and retrofitting, raising questions about affordability and whether rebate programs should be included

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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