With legislative sessions in full swing, several states are advancing bills that could impact irrigation equipment efficiency, water conservation efforts and industry regulations. Lawmakers across multiple states are considering new irrigation efficiency measures, with several bills already making progress through the legislative process.
Key bills & latest updates
- Utah – H.B. 330: Water Sprinkler Efficiency Requirements
Status: Filed in the House
This bill would require spray sprinkler bodies to regulate water pressure, improving irrigation performance and reducing excess water use.
- Illinois – H.B. 1612 & S.B. 1582: EPA Appliance Standards
Status: H.B. 1612 – Assigned to Energy & Environment Committee; S.B. 1582 – Senate Committee on Assignments
These bills would update appliance efficiency standards, including irrigation controllers and sprinkler bodies, to align with federal EPA guidelines.
- Pennsylvania – H.B. 660: Minimum Energy & Water Efficiency Standards
Status: Referred to Energy Committee
Establishes efficiency requirements for irrigation components and phases out less efficient models to promote water conservation.
- New Mexico – H.B. 409: Efficiency & Mercury Standards for Products
Status: Sent to House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee (HENRC); Referrals to HENRC and House Judiciary Committee (HJC)
Updates efficiency standards for irrigation components, including spray sprinkler bodies, while also introducing new mercury content limits for certain appliances.
What’s next?
As these bills progress, industry stakeholders should remain engaged with state policymakers to ensure that any new regulations support practical, effective water conservation strategies.
“With water efficiency at the forefront of policy discussions, it’s critical that irrigation professionals have a seat at the table,” says Nathan Bowen, Irrigation Association policy and industry advancement vice president. “Well-crafted legislation can drive meaningful conservation, but it must also recognize the operational realities of our industry. We’re committed to working with lawmakers to ensure that any new standards promote efficiency without placing unnecessary burdens on manufacturers, contractors or end users.”
