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HCR 103

BUILDING CODES: Provides relative to backflow prevention inspection frequency

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Raymond Crews

Louisiana would study and potentially amend backflow prevention rules to reduce inspection/testing frequency, possibly moving from annual to longer intervals.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
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Bill Summary · HCR 103

Overview

  • Bill: HCR 103 (Louisiana 2026 Regular Session)
  • Type: House Concurrent Resolution
  • Sponsor: Rep. Crews (co-sponsor: Rep. Raymond Crews)
  • Purpose: Urge the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council to study and consider amending the International Plumbing Code provisions related to backflow prevention inspection frequency, with the aim of allowing a less frequent inspection/testing schedule.

What the bill asks the Council to do

  • Study feasibility, safety, and public health impacts of changing the current requirement.
  • Consider amending the International Plumbing Code (as adopted in Louisiana) to reduce the frequency of:
    • Inspections of backflow prevention devices
    • Inspections of barometric loops
    • Inspections of air gaps
    • Testing of certain backflow prevention assemblies
  • Propose rules or amendments to implement a less frequent schedule if appropriate.

Key provisions and potential changes contemplated

  • Current baseline (as adopted in Louisiana): Annual inspections and at least annual testing for specified backflow-related devices and assemblies.
  • Proposed outcomes to study for possible implementation:
    • Reduced inspection/testing frequency to options such as every two years, every five years, every ten years, or upon sale/transfer of the property.
    • Consideration of different schedules for low-hazard residential connections vs. higher-hazard commercial/industrial contexts.
  • The resolution does not itself set a new frequency; it directs the Council to study and, if appropriate, promulgate rules/amendments.

Who would be affected

  • Property owners and occupants (residential, including single-family and small multi-family dwellings) who currently face annual backflow-related inspections and testing.
  • Homeowners, tenants, and responsible parties responsible for hiring certified testers, keeping records, and reporting to authorities or water suppliers.
  • Plumbing professionals, water suppliers, the Louisiana Department of Health, the State Plumbing Board, and the State Licensing Board for Contractors (through input during the study).

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The resolution requests (urges) the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council to:
    • Study the feasibility and public health implications of reducing inspection/testing frequency.
    • Consider stakeholder input (homeowners, plumbing professionals, water suppliers, health and licensing agencies, etc.).
    • If appropriate, promulgate rules or amendments to implement the change.
  • By its nature, the resolution initiates a study rather than immediate regulatory change.
  • The resolution is a call to action for the Council and does not itself modify statutes or code until and unless the Council drafts and the Legislature approves amendments.

Context and rationale (as stated in bill)

  • Rationale centers on balancing public health protection with cost and burden on property owners.
  • Argues that modern backflow assemblies are durable and may not require annual checks for low-hazard residential use.
  • Cites examples from other states (Wisconsin, Florida) that use less frequent testing schedules for certain residential backflow situations.
  • Highlights potential cost savings from reduced inspection/testing frequency.

Implications of passage

  • If the Council conducts the study and adopts amendments, Louisiana could move away from universal annual inspections for all backflow-related devices in favor of a tiered or extended schedule.
  • Potential reduction in costs for homeowners and property managers, along with administrative burden on testers and authorities.
  • Any changes would still aim to protect the public water supply, with public health impacts assessed during the study process.

Note: This summary reflects the bill’s stated intent and potential effects based on the provided text. No actual regulatory change occurs unless the Council completes the study and the Legislature approves follow-on amendments.

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

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