Plumbers and local water districts in Colorado say they were caught off guard by a new law that could cause consumer prices to spike. The law requires anyone inspecting, testing, or repairing a backflow prevention device to have a plumbing license. These devices prevent used water from entering the water supply and are common in commercial buildings and residential sprinkler systems. Previously, state law only required a permit to install or remove equipment. Some water districts require frequent inspections. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, which regulates water quality, and the Division of Regulatory Agencies, which licenses plumbers, both opposed the change. Rep. Sheila Lieder, the bill’s sponsor, said this was an unintended effect. “Unfortunately, these concerns were not raised during any of the five legislative hearings and floor debates held last March, making it difficult to incorporate feedback before the next legislative session,” she said in a statement.
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