Winners of the 2024-25 Eugene and Raymond Cardoza Memorial Scholarship

The winners of the Eugene & Raymond Cardoza Memorial Scholarship Program have been determined by a panel of Fordham professors. Further information on the scholarship program can be found on the Association of Contracting Plumbers’ website (acpcny.org). Five recipients will receive $5,000 a year towards a collegiate education. The 2025-2026 application is available in mid-October. As a reminder, all scholarship applications are reviewed by an independent panel of educators and selections are based upon academic achievement, community service, and extracurricular activities of persons graduating high school or are currently enrolled in college. The Trustees of the Promotion Fund and the ACP Executive Board are happy to announce the following winners: David Feng Max Levine Joseph Sanflippo Jr. Adian Boyle Veronica Milko Congratulations to all the winners. We wish you luck with your future endeavors!

Letter to US Attorney General Bondi on Preemption of Gas Ban

Please be advised that on June 26th, the Plumbing Foundation co-signed a letter to US Attorney General Pam Bondi requesting Federal action on the NYS & NYC gas bans. The letter asks for the US Department of Justice “…to take immediate action under President Donald Trump’s recent Executive Order on Protecting American Energy from State Overreach. Specially, we ask that your office investigate and pursue legal action to delay, postpone or preempt..” laws banning fossil fuel appliances, gas piping, and gas infrastructure. As we have already seen under the all-electric building requirement since January 1, 2024, due to Local Law 154/2021, the plumbing industry has been severely disrupted. Local Law 154 was ill-conceived and fast-tracked at the very end of the deBlasio mayoral administration. The plumbing industry has always been environmentally conscience and the frontlines for energy usage in NYC buildings. As we have been stating for years, all efficient and green methods to fuel NYC buildings and energy to cooking appliances should be available, not just electricity.

GOQ Notice – NGA/GTI No Longer Offering LL152 Training

The Northeast Gas Association (NGA)/ GTI, in coordination with The Plumbing Foundation, National Grid, Con Ed, Plumbers Local 1 and MPC (GOQ Collaborative) developed an Interior Gas Piping Safety Training Program for licensed master plumbers and their technicians to become operator qualified in Covered Tasks 86/87 (inspections/maintenance & repairs of jurisdictional gas piping) to comply with NYS regulations. In parallel to the New York regulatory changes, NYC Local Law 152 was implemented, which also requires plumbing technicians, working under an LMP, to be trained to perform gas piping safety inspections on behalf of building owners. This now 10-hour training program was shared with the NYC DOB in the early stages of rule development for LL152, and the core content was subsequently adopted by DOB as the Course Content for Course Providers. GTI, one of the nation’s leading gas training providers and research organizations, partnered with NGA, one of the nation’s leading Operator Qualification Program Providers, together became a NYC DOB Course Provider providing both LL152 Training and Operator Qualification Training under the Plumbing Foundation’s umbrella through the Master Plumbers Council and UA Local 1 JATC. Unfortunately, while the GOQ Collaborative has successfully trained and Gas Operator Qualified over 2,000 plumbers (LMPs and technicians) in NYC, the NYC DOB recent rule change for third-party course providers precludes GTI & NGA from offering LL152 training under the Course Provider Program. The NGA/GTI partnership under the Plumbing Foundation umbrella will not meet the administrative requirements of the new Course Provider Rules for LL152 inspections as previously stated, effective June 19, 2025. However, NGA and GTI will continue offering Gas Operator Qualification Training required to work on jurisdictional piping which is mandated by both Con Edison and National Grid but NOT for NYC LL152. As an additional reminder, the GOQ Program remains in place and participation is required to perform jurisdictional piping work and to meet Con Ed and National Grid requirements, which are driven by Federal and State Laws. Finally, to further support our members and the expansion of the Gas Operator safety efforts, the Plumbing Foundation has invested in a new Prometric Compliance Testing Center in Richmond Hill, Queens (11-20 Jamaica Ave). This test center will offer our members additional flexibility in scheduling exams for those seeking and maintaining Operator Qualification status. Information on the new testing availability for the written exam will be shared with all members going forward, instead of at the 35-55 Junction Blvd Prometric testing site. FYI-Practical exams are currently being held on the MPC and UA Plumbers Local 1 JATC facilities, but with efforts underway to have all practical exams at one the Richmond Hill testing site. All persons seeking task 86/87 qualification will be testing exclusively for both the written and practical exams at the Richmond Hill site in the Fall of 2025.

Eliminating the 100-Foot Rule

On June 23rd, the Foundation sent a memo to Governor Hochul, requesting a veto on a recently passed piece of legislation. The bill on her desk is S8417/A8888, which will have a profound impact on the plumbing industry, not only in NYC but the entire state by eliminating the 100-foot rule. Portions of the memo are listed below: “… [P]assage [of S8417/A8888] poses significant and detrimental consequences for consumers, businesses, and the broader energy infrastructure across our state. The 100-foot rule has long served as a vital protection, ensuring that the costs associated with extending new gas service lines are equitably managed and that ratepayer subsidies are applied judiciously. New York residents already contend with some of the highest energy costs in the nation, with average residential electricity rates significantly exceeding the national average (e.g., 25.43 cents per kWh in March 2025 compared to the national average of 17.1 cents per kWh). Many homeowners struggle to afford their utility bills, and statewide utility debt has reached alarming levels, surging to $1.8 billion by December 2024. Roughly one in four New Yorkers pay more than 6% of their annual income on electricity and natural gas. Without the 100-foot rule, utility companies would be incentivized to extend gas lines to properties significantly further from existing infrastructure, with the costs for these lengthy extensions being socialized across the entire rate base. This will dramatically increase energy bills for every New Yorker, including those struggling with affordability and those who have already transitioned to alternative energy sources, further compounding existing financial pressures. Furthermore, as New York strives towards a cleaner energy future, it is imperative that state resources and subsidies are strategically allocated. Eliminating the 100-foot rule could inadvertently encourage the expansion of natural gas infrastructure into areas where renewable or more efficient heating solutions might be more appropriate, thereby conflicting with the state’s ambitious decarbonization targets. The current rule subtly encourages more efficient urban planning and development closer to existing infrastructure, which is a sound economic and environmental practice. Its removal could lead to sprawling development patterns that are less energy-efficient and more costly to serve, thus disincentivizing efficiency and modernization efforts…..The Plumbing Foundation believes in a balanced approach that supports energy evolution while safeguarding consumer interests and fiscal responsibility. The elimination of the 100-foot rule in S.8417/A.8888 is a step backward, placing an unnecessary burden on New York families and businesses and potentially hindering our collective long-term energy goals. We urge you to consider these critical implications and exercise your power to veto S.8417/A.8888. We stand ready to collaborate with your administration and the legislature to develop sensible policies that promote a reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy future for all New Yorkers.”

THE PIPECASTER is published by the Plumbing Foundation City of New York, Inc.

Lawrence J. Levine, Chairman; Louis J. Buttermark, Vice Chairman; Barr Rickman, Treasurer; April McIver, Executive Director; Terence O’Brien, Editor. Board of Directors: Anthony D. Altimari, Paul Belli, Marc Breslaw, Louis J. Buttermark, Harris Clark, Alex Greenberg, Nicholas Katragis, Angelo Lemodetis, Lawrence J. Levine, Scott Lyons, Barr Rickman, Richard Turchiano

Association of Contracting Plumbers Raises $117,000 for Food1st

The Association of Contracting Plumbers of the City of New York, Inc. (ACP) held its annual “Plumbing Industry Day” Charity Golf Outing on May 19, 2025. The ACP is pleased to report that $117,000 was donated to Food1st. SL Green established Food1st with the objective of alleviating the ongoing food shortage in New York City that has been was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. SL Green seeked the support from its tenants, neighbors, and friends in providing support for this much-needed initiative. Food1st’s objective to help feed emergency service workers and our neighbors who have limited access to food by partnering with restaurants throughout New York City in a way that will also revitalize the City’s food and beverage industry. The funds raised will help strive support Food1st. Food1st has provided over 1 million meals over the past 5 years. Thank you to everyone who made the day a success, and keep feeding New Yorkers in need!

THE PLUMBING FOUNDATION’S ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Since its establishment in 1986, the Plumbing Foundation has worked diligently to ensure the plumbing industry has as little a “carbon footprint” on New York City as possible. The plumbing industry has historically utilized environmentally friendly materials such as recycled cast-iron and copper piping/fittings. The Foundation will continue in its role of protecting New York City as well as being an advocate for the environment by strengthening its water/sanitary regulations and thereby reducing wasteful water consumption in the City.

Op-Ed: New York’s Con Edison Crisis is Far From Over

By APRIL MCIVER, ROCCO J. LACERTOSA and KRIS DELAIR

Originally published in the NY Daily News on March 7, 2025

With Con Edison proposing new rate increases, millions of New Yorkers will be paying close to $2,000 more each year in energy costs, another serious blow to our ever-shrinking wallets in the name of green energy. Con Edison has stated the hikes are necessary to meet the new demands on its citywide system — and we would agree. Over the next decade, New Yorkers should brace for a steady wave of rising energy costs as new infrastructure will be needed to fulfill the all-electric construction edict enacted here. Starting in 2024, no natural gas hookups were permitted in new construction and major renovations in New York City, and that has placed a major strain on the system. Nearly 6,000 permits were issued for new buildings last year alone, and that number is certain to rise as more and more companies choose to mandate on-site work schedules. New York’s power grid was not designed to handle an all-electric city, and such a massive conversion would require years of careful design, planning and collaboration among industry stakeholders. None of that happened when our elected officials implemented the gas ban — without proper industry input — and therefore, they set the stage for the pricing drama we are seeing unfold today. Natural gas provides power for electricity, and this is the case for 38% of all electricity in the United States. In New York, that number is much higher where approximately 65% of electricity is produced by fossil fuels, the cleanest and most efficient being natural gas. Experts have long predicted that prohibiting new gas hookups will lead to significant socio-economic challenges and electric power supply concerns, and unfortunately, we are now seeing the first local evidence of this. Creating healthier spaces is an important goal, and our members are committed to reducing our environmental impact with more sustainable materials and methods. Yet leaping to an all-electric mandate without the right infrastructure is an economic disaster waiting to happen, and this new electrical rate increase — up to 11.4% per household— is the first of many financial jolts to our personal budgets. In response, Gov. Hochul has called for the state Public Service Commission to reject the rate increase. That’s a good start, but the real culprit lies within the city’s well-intentioned but misguided green energy push that outlawed the use of natural gas. We suggest a more reasonable, more realistic approach that acknowledges both the importance of sustainable building and the need to slow the drive toward green energy so we can ensure our infrastructure is adequately equipped. We call for the following four steps:

• A temporary suspension of the city’s gas ban to prevent future rate increases;
• A creation of a citywide task force of public and private industry leaders to study the feasibility, impact and timeline for all-electric implementation;
• A presentation of the task force’s findings in a series of public hearings; and
• A pledge to explore the use of alternative fuels — such as biodiesel — for building heating options that can help meet the city and state’s clean energy goals.

Naturalgas is our most abundant fuel and we need it to protect the essential elements of our society. For example, the state just approved an expansion of the 414-mile Iroquois gas pipeline because other power sources, such as wind, solar and hydro, are not presently viable on any large scale. In the event of another citywide emergency, the impact on the electric grid may mean there will be no redundant heating and cooking source, leading to an unprecedented catastrophe. The city also must continue to explore the use of biofuels, which offer a low- cost solution for decarbonization and are being deployed to reduce emissions in buildings and vehicle fleets — including the Staten Island Ferry. Biofuels, which are manufactured domestically from vegetable oils and recycled restaurant grease, have been deployed for the past decade and can be expanded immediately in homes and businesses using existing heating systems. The need for a real conversation on natural gas and biofuels has never been greater, but that dialogue must be based on science, facts and feasibility, not pure politics. We are urging our elected leaders to meet us at the table — so we can learn from this current crisis and prevent one that is even more dire.

Our wallets — and our lives — depend on it.

McIver is the executive director of the Plumbing Foundation, City of New York, a non-profit association representing licensed contracting firms, engineering associations, manufacturers and suppliers. Lacertosa is CEO of the New York State Energy Coalition, Inc. DeLair is the executive director of the Empire State Energy Association, Inc.

Plumbing Foundation Advocates in Albany

The Plumbing Foundation’s Executive and Senior Directors headed to Albany this past February 10 and 11, not surprisingly on a couple of chilly days. Led by their lobbyists at Catalyst Government Relations, they met with New York State Senators and Assemblymembers to discuss the Plumbing Foundation’s state legislative agenda for 2025, which included items from Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed budget. The Foundation expressed support for thermal energy and hydrogen legislation as well as reforms to insurance including workers compensation to ensure more equitable treatment of employers for wear & tear claims. The Foundation also advocated for its modular construction legislation, sponsored by Assemblyman Erik Dilan (District 54 – Brooklyn) and Senator Jessica Ramos (District 13 – Queens), which requires New York City modular construction projects to comply with the NYC Building Code licensing standards, regardless of where the modular components are made. That legislation passed both houses in 2022 but was vetoed in December of that year along with hundreds of other bills. The veto memo cited two main points that were, frankly, erroneous; the first included a “potential” impact on affordable housing which we do not believe will be at any meaningful level—there also has been zero reliable sources proving that it would be. The second was the notion that the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) is already enforcing this requirement. The industry knows the history of modular construction projects in New York City and the DOB’s refusal to enforce licensing standards but rather allow a flawed third-party certification process by any architecture or engineering firm, which tends to be from, according to a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request the Foundation conducted, outside of New York. The veto memo also seemed more concerned with out of state contractors over the need for jobs by New York’s own residents and local businesses. The Foundation once again opposed the NY Home Energy Affordable Transition (HEAT) Act, as it did in 2024 when Governor Hochul introduced a version known as the Affordable Gas Transition Act in her budget (but which was was not adopted in the final budget last year and fortunately was not proposed in her budget this year). Among its provisions, the act proposes to eliminate the 100- foot rule whereby utility companies subsidize new gas hookups. The Plumbing Foundation and similar stakeholders across the state have been in opposition to this bill as this is one of many attempts to speed up the process to get rid of natural gas to reach the goals of the NYS Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). The CLPCA is already on a too ambitious timeline and the state has not properly considered a more reasonable “all the above” approach and rather has been too focused on solar and wind energy, which are not widely available. To quote a 2025 National Fuel memo on the NY HEAT Act, “[t]he CLCPA does not mandate discontinuance of the natural gas system, and the continued operation of a modernized natural gas system paired with low- and no-carbon fuels, hybrid heating and weatherization is entirely consistent with attainment of the statute’s emission reduction goals. Indeed, use of a decarbonized natural gas system will be necessary to achieve these reductions in a responsible way that ensures the continued reliability, resilience and affordability of energy in the State.” The Foundation’s legislative agenda also included opposition to the Bucks for Boilers Act (banning gas on all buildings above and beyond the 2022 gas ban on new construction) and the Scaffold Law (strict liability for owners and their agents for fall- related accidents). The Executive and Senior Directors met with legislators from New York City as well as some outside the Big Apple who sit on the Labor Committees in which our modular bill awaits approval. Overall, the meetings were very positive as the elected officials were receptive to the logical and well-thought out agenda. Some of the members that the Foundation met included: Assemblymember Erik Dilan (District 54, Part of Brooklyn), Sen. Jack Martins (R, 7th District, Part of Nassau County), Assemblymember Ed Ra (R, District 19, Part of Nassau), (D, 61st District, Buffalo area) (Labor Committee), Assemblymember Steven Raga (D, District 30, Part of Queens) (Labor Committee), Assemblymember Harry Bronson (D, District 138, Rochester area) (Chair of Labor Committee), Sen. Chris Ryan (D, 50th District, Syracuse area) (Labor Committee), Senator Mario Mattera (R, 2nd District, Part of Suffolk County) (Labor Committee), and Assemblymember Jonathan Rivera (District 149, Buffalo area) (Labor Committee). The legislature is focused on the budget until its due date of April 1 (which is typically adopted late, including in 2024) and then will continue its regular session days through June. The Plumbing Foundation hopes to make headway on its legislative agenda and will keep the industry apprised of our efforts.

Trump Administration Rescinds NYC Congestion Pricing

On February 19, 2025, the Federal Highway Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul terminating the agreed upon congestion pricing program citing that the “value pricing pilot program” is a narrow exception to the prohibition of tolls on federal highways, and further that the New York program does not offer a toll-free option and the program seems to be driven more for MTA funding than to reduce congestion. Governor Hochul responded in a press conference and at an MTA Board Meeting on February 26th that they are holding strong and keeping the cameras on, and met with President Trump to try and convince him to reverse his decision, citing the program’s early success in improving travel times and mass transit ridership. One of the Plumbing Foundation Board Members was quoted in the NY Post on his reaction to the termination of the program, Mr. Paul Belli of Franco Belli Plumbing said he was ecstatic and that “[n]obody needs this. Everyone has high inflation they’re dealing with already.” The MTA has filed a lawsuit challenging the federal government’s decision. The City was instructed to end the program by March 21. We will keep the industry updated on the status of the program. Sources in this article include: https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/memorandum/VPPPletter_termination_021925.pdf https://nypost.com/2025/02/19/us-news/nyc-workers-commuters-rejoice-over-trumps-axing-of-congestion-pricing-toll-im-ecstatic/ https://abc7ny.com/post/congestion-pricing-nyc-trump-administration-sets-end-date-new-york-city-tolling-program/15957288/

THE PIPECASTER is published by the Plumbing Foundation City of New York, Inc.

Lawrence J. Levine, Chairman; Louis J. Buttermark, Vice Chairman; Barr Rickman, Treasurer; April McIver, Executive Director; Terence O’Brien, Editor. Board of Directors: Anthony D. Altimari, Paul Belli, Marc Breslaw, Louis J. Buttermark, Harris Clark, Alex Greenberg, Nicholas Katragis, Angelo Lemodetis, Lawrence J. Levine, Scott Lyons, Barr Rickman, Richard Turchiano

Updates and Reminders from DOB

Below are important updates the Plumbing Foundation seeks to share from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).

1. As a reminder, any work under categories 1 and 2 cannot be on the same Limited Alteration Application (LAA) form. This separation of work scope is for both plumbing and fire suppression work. Practically speaking, inspections may overlap considering work under Category 1 and 2 may be within the same workspace, floor, apartment, etc. Please note it is best to make reference to the corresponding LAA Category 1 filing and Category 2 filing to ensure proper DOB inspection coordination occurs.
2. There is a DOB requirement for a police report when a DOB-issued license is lost or stolen, including even if it is lost in the USPS when the license is issued and sent from the Department. As everyone is aware, including DOB, it is extremely difficult to obtain a police report for a piece of missing mail. Considering licenses are sent to only the valid DOB-established licensee’s place of business in the City, the NYPD is the best avenue to report lost mail. If people cannot obtain a police report from their local precinct, there is an NYPD online portal to lodge a complaint including for lost mail. A copy of that complaint is acceptable proof for the DOB to reissue your lost license with the current $50 administrative fee. The website is https://nypdonline.org/link/1017%23!#

THE PLUMBING FOUNDATION’S ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Since its establishment in 1986, the Plumbing Foundation has worked diligently to ensure the plumbing industry has as little a “carbon footprint” on New York City as possible. The plumbing industry has historically utilized environmentally friendly materials such as recycled cast-iron and copper piping/fittings. The Foundation will continue in its role of protecting New York City as well as being an advocate for the environment by strengthening its water/sanitary regulations and thereby reducing wasteful water consumption in the City.

Congestion Pricing is Back with a New (But Not Improved) Pricing Structure

If you have been keeping up with the news all year, congestion pricing has been a rollercoaster. In March, the MTA held several hearings—with public comments due by March 11—on its pricing structure, which called for charging trucks $24–$36 (depending on size) every single time they enter the zone, and passenger vehicles $15 once per day. The MTA did propose discounts for overnight travel and certain bridge and tunnel crossings. Despite stakeholder feedback in opposition and pending lawsuits, the MTA adopted the pricing structure on March 27. The MTA indicated that they hoped to implement the plan this past June, but which could be delayed because of the several ongoing lawsuits, including by the State of New Jersey. Then on June 5, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York will put an “indefinite” pause to congestion pricing due to unintended consequences. “Circumstances have changed and we must respond to the facts on the ground, not to the rhetoric from five years ago” the Governor reasoned. The Plumbing Foundation commended the Governor for realizing the impact of congestion pricing and that there are many consequences to small business owners and, of course, the plumbing community. Around the same time of this announcement, the Trucking Association of New York (TANY) filed a lawsuit challenging congestion pricing, arguing that congestion pricing violates the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution which grants Congress the power “to regulate Commerce… among the several States.” During the summer, various sources indicated that the Governor was actually working with the MTA on a new pricing plan that would be “more fair and equitable,” meaning congestion pricing was not dead indefinitely. On November 14, 2024, Governor Hochul announced a new plan for congestion pricing. In summary:

• There will be a 40% reduction across the board from the original plan
• Small trucks and non-commuter buses: $14.40
• Large trucks and sightseeing buses: $21.60
• Tunnel crossing credits reduced by 40% of original plan
• $9 for all other vehicles entering the zone
• Commercial vehicles will still be charged per trip rather than per day
• Automated Camera Enforcement program to permit enforcement of “blocking the box” violations at NYC street intersections
• Authorization for the use of weigh-in-motion (WIM) technology

The MTA Board approved this plan on November 18 and set a January 5 implementation date. The full tolling structure can be accessed via the website below. With this new plan adopted, lawsuits forge ahead, including the lawsuit by TANY that is scheduled for oral arguments on December 20 with an anticipated decision on the injunction request before January 5th. The Plumbing Foundation submitted an Amicus Brief in support of TANY’s lawsuit since we oppose the revised plan. We will continue to keep the industry apprised of our efforts and any relevant updates. Image source: https://congestionreliefzone.mta.info/

City Council Approves Mayor Adams’ City of Yes

On November 21, the NYC Council voted to approve Mayor Eric Adams City of Yes housing initiative (LU 0181-2024), which was submitted by the New York City Department of City Planning, pursuant to Section 201 of the New York City Charter, for an amendment of the Zoning Resolution of the City of New York, modifying multiple sections to expand opportunities for housing within all zoning districts across the city. As part of Mayor Adams’ City of Yes initiative, the Plumbing Foundation was notified on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 of a hearing on November 19, 2024 covering several pieces of legislation to be preconsidered for introduction. One of the pieces of legislation was a bill setting forth standards for construction of ancillary dwelling units (ADUs). The Plumbing Foundation submitted testimony stating our overall support of the initiative, but urged the Council to strike the below language in its entirety:

U103.5.5 Plastic piping. Notwithstanding any inconsistent provisions of the New York City Plumbing Code, plastic piping shall be permitted in ADUs as permitted by the New York State Residential Code.

There is a long history of the plumbing industry—and to an extent, the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB)—being in opposition to the use of plastic piping for certain plumbing purposes (i.e., potable water). NYC is a uniquely dense city riddled with high rises, older buildings, gas piping and sewage piping (7,400 miles), and the NYC Building Code is very specific to our building and infrastructure needs. Industry experts meet with the DOB for each Code Revision Cycle during which these topics are addressed, plastic piping being brought up time and time again. The safety and feasibility of current plastic products have not met the standards of our industry experts and DOB experts in order to expand the Code requirements. While the state code may allow for plastic piping for certain sewage and water distribution systems, NYC’s plumbing industry experts argue that there is not enough evidence that such systems are rated to perform equally and safely at the identical conditions encountered in NYC potable water systems. Importantly, there are recent studies raising concerns about the safety and health impacts of certain plastic piping. In Plastic Pipes, Microplastics & Impacts on Human Health by Safe Piping Matters, it explains the hazards of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) pipes which crack and peel quickly as they age due to water and additives, particles from which can affect the stomach, lungs, brain, and reproductive system when digested by humans over time. Further, it should be clearly noted that “[s]ince plastic is made from petroleum-based chemicals, plastic pipes are combustible and can burn and/or melt in fires, releasing toxic substances into air and water.” Finally, in a study titled Plastic water supply connectors: Leaching, hydrocarbon contamination, and decontamination, once hydrocarbon contaminants reached building water systems, “sorbed mass remained in the” PVC tubing at the end of decontamination, “indicating the products posed continued leaching risks.” Clearly, there remain very serious concerns associated with use of plastic piping in plumbing systems. While the text proposed in the ADU bill states “notwithstanding any inconsistent provisions of the New York City Plumbing Code” arguably ensuring that our City’s specific plumbing code requirements are met, it was also our understanding that the City sought to allow manufactured ADUs (pre fabricated) which already contain plastic piping in compliance with NYS Code which would not be in compliance with the NYC Plumbing Code. Therefore, we urged the council to strike the entire section from the law to ensure there is no confusion or loopholes. On December 2, the City Council issued an A version of the bill, Int. No. 1128-A, removing the provision on plastic piping but adding a new type of ADU known as “manufactured homes.” The definition of manufactured home includes “factory manufactured home” from the New York State Executive Law. It appears that NYS regulated factory manufactured buildings are subject to the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (The “Uniform Code”), which under Chapter 6 “Water Supply and Distribution” allows for plastic piping in such systems. We received confirmation separately from the DOB and the City Council that the intent in the A version is that plastic piping will not be allowed despite this new definition. We still reiterated, again, our health concerns with plastic piping. On December 5, the NYC Council Committee on Housing & Buildings approved the A version, and the NYC Council passed Int. 1128-A. Sources: https://safepipingmatters.org/plastic-pipes-microplastics-impacts-on-human-health/ https://safepipingmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Spec_Guide_2024edition_05-21-2024.pdf https://awwa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aws2.1382

Oct. 16: Plumbing Foundation Testifies at Housing & Buildings Hearing

On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, the New York City Council Committee on Housing & Buildings held a hearing on several bills, but specifically in the interest of the Plumbing Foundation was Int. 429-2024. Int. 429 contains several vital amendments to Local Law 152/2016 periodic gas inspections as well as to ordinary plumbing work, emergency work, and the NYC Department of Buildings’ (DOB) seizure and forfeiture ability related to unlicensed construction activity. The bill also proposes to reinstate the Master Plumber and Master Fire Suppression License Board. The hearing testimony began with the DOB, represented by Constadino ‘Gus’ Sirakis, Deputy Commissioner of Development & Technical Affairs and Tarek Khalil, Assistant Commissioner for Central Inspections. Unfortunately, despite industry feedback and perceived support from DOB on the Local Law 152 amendments, the Department testified against the legislation’s provisions for various reasons. The Plumbing Foundation Executive Director April McIver testified in support of Int. 429, with a focus on the amendments to Local Law 152 (LL152). She used her time to correct several apparent misapprehensions made during the Department’s testimony. First, she explained that the proposed amendments seek to clarify and streamline the process for owners to obtain certification of no gas piping or if their building has gas piping, certification it is not being supplied with gas. The process to require a utility letter is not a procedure the utility companies want or believe they should do, rendering the law impracticable. Licensed Master Plumbers (LMP) are in the best position and best qualified to certify gas supply/piping status. Second, she agreed with the Committee’s Chairwoman and sponsor of the bill, Pierina Sanchez, that given the 5 years’ of experience required by DOB rule for LL152 inspections that instating in law that a DOB journeyman plumber card is required, which is obtained by someone with 5 years of experience, makes the most sense. Currently, DOB is doing nothing to check the qualifications of and/or required training for technicians working under a licensed master plumber and conducting LL152 inspections. The Plumbing Foundation is aware of bad actors in the industry not complying with the qualification requirements (and has made DOB aware numerous times over the past few years). Ms. McIver also clarified that the amendments to the bill were NOT expanding the scope of an inspection into residential tenant spaces. Rather, the bill clarifies the original intent of the law to ensure commercial tenants like restaurants, daycares, and those otherwise open to the public are included in the scope of the inspection. Finally, Ms. McIver said in response to DOB’s comment that the Code Revision process is to address these types of amendments, while she is grateful to be included in that process, DOB has the ultimate say as to final language and the process is lengthy. The next Local Law 152 cycle begins in January 2025, so she urged the Council to act now. Next, Terence O’Brien, the Senior Director of the Plumbing Foundation and the Executive Vice President of the Association of Contracting Plumbers (ACP) of the City of New York spoke in support of Int. 429, with an emphasis on the reinstatement of the Master Plumber and Master Fire Suppression Contractor Licensing Board and the expansion to DOB’s seizure and forfeiture abilities of tools and vehicles in connection with unlicensed construction. First, Mr. O’Brien explained that re-establishing the License Board is a necessity and that it was a travesty that the City decided to abolish the Board at the end of 2022. There are two functions of the Board: reviewing applications of potential new license holders and, more importantly, the review of disciplinary matters of existing plumbing and fire suppression licensees. Plumbing and Fire Suppression are highly regulated trades and peer review is a value to the industry, not a negative. He explained that NYS engineers, doctors, lawyers, and many others all have peer review which aids in regulating their professions. The industry has received no valid explanation as to why the City disbanded the Board. Secondly, Mr. O’Brien explained that the DOB has been supportive of the proposal to expand the Department’s ability to seize tools and vehicles of persons/companies engaging in illegal and unlicensed construction in the City. Currently, the Code only allows for such seizure in connection with residential new construction. There are countless persons and even whole companies actually conducting plumbing work without license(s) and thereby have no ability to obtain permits to legally perform that work. These unlicensed plumbers are performing work in residential and commercial buildings of all sizes and jeopardizing public health and safety. Currently, DOB and Courts can only do what they are legally allowed to do against these unlicensed actors: a small monetary fine of a few thousand dollars which is regularly not collected. Mr. O’Brien emphasized that having the ability to impound the vehicles and tools of unlicensed plumbers is truly the only way to stop this pervasive and growing problem. Both Ms. McIver and Mr. O’Brien submitted written testimony in support of the entirety of Int. 429. Thank you to Chairwoman Pierina Sanchez for sponsorship of the bill and for providing an opportunity to testify on this important piece of legislation. We hope to work with both the Council and DOB in the near future to get this legislation passed into law.

IMPORTANT NYC DOB SERVICE NOTICES

NEW Worker Wallet Card to Launch in Training Connect – Effective November 1, 2024, Department-approved Course Providers will issue Worker Wallet Cards through the NYC DOB Training Connect platform, leveraging the same technology used to issue Site Safety Training (SST) cards. For more info, visit: www.nyc.gov/assets/buildings/pdf/workerwallet-sn.pdf Local Law 147 of 2021: New Definition of Major Building – 7 or More Stories or 75 Feet in Height – Effective December 11, 2024, the definition of a ‘major building’ in Section 202 of Chapter 2 of the NYC Building Code will change from an existing or proposed building 10 or more stories or 125 feet or more in height, to an existing or proposed building 7 or more stories or 75 feet or more in height. Current additional triggers for an existing or proposed building with a building footprint of 100,000 square feet or more regardless of height, or an existing or proposed building designated by the Commissioner of the Department of Buildings as a major building due to unique hazards associated with the construction or demolition of the structure, will not change. For more info, visit: www.nyc.gov/assets/buildings/pdf/majorbuildingdef-sn.pdf

NYC Department of Environmental Protection Launches Program to Upgrade Automatic Water Meter Reading Devices Citywide

Upgrades, Beginning in Greenpoint Neighborhood, Will Ensure That Property Owners Receive Real Time Information About Their Water Use to Help Conserve Water; Project Will Also Ensure Reliable, Accurate Water Bills The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) [announced on December 2nd] the start of a program to upgrade more than 600,000 Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) devices across the city over the next three years. The AMR device is the small gray box attached to the exterior of a property that wirelessly transmits water consumption readings from the water meter to DEP. This work will begin in the Greenpoint neighborhood and the upgrades to the existing AMR devices will provide a number of key benefits including:

• Real-Time Monitoring: Customers can access detailed consumption data online to understand their water use.
• Improved Leak Detection: Faster identification and response to leaks, reducing water loss.
• Enhanced Customer Service: Consistent water use readings translate to better overall service quality.

The upgrade program is mandatory for all property owners and DEP will perform the work at no charge. Most AMR devices are located on the exterior of the property so no appointments will be necessary to complete the upgrade. Residents may see DEP technicians and/or contractors approach their property and walk the perimeter of the building to identify the location of the AMR device. The DEP technicians or contractors will be clearly identified with DEP logos on their uniforms and will produce proper identification, including a DEP ID card, upon request. They will travel in vehicles with DEP markings and will never ask for payment. Property owners are asked to:

• Ensure the area around the AMR device is clear and accessible and trim back bushes so technicians can easily access the AMR device.
• Bring any pets inside while technicians are working at the property.
• Look out for notifications regarding installation timelines.

Technicians may move garbage cans or open unlocked gates to access the AMR device if needed. Property owners must allow DEP staff or contractors access to the AMR device; failure to provide access may result in a fee. Once the AMR device is found, the technician will remove the old unit, install a new unit in the same location, and test the unit to ensure it is working. Upgrades take 15-30 minutes per property. Technicians will clean up and take any/all debris with them. If the technician cannot access an AMR device, they may return during an evening or weekend. In some cases, property owners may receive a letter from DEP requesting an appointment to replace the AMR device because DEP must access the interior of the property to complete the upgrade. DEP manages New York City’s water supply, providing more than 1 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water each day to nearly 10 million residents, including 8.8 million in New York City and 1 million more in counties north of the City. The water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the City, comprising 19 reservoirs and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs, and 7,500 miles of sewer lines and 96 pump stations take wastewater to 14 in-city treatment plants. DEP also protects the health and safety of New Yorkers by enforcing the Air and Noise Codes and asbestos rules. DEP has a robust capital program, with a planned $29 billion in investments over the next 10 years. For more information, visit nyc.gov/dep, like us on Facebook, or follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter.

THE PIPECASTER is published by the Plumbing Foundation City of New York, Inc.

Lawrence J. Levine, Chairman; Louis J. Buttermark, Vice Chairman; Barr Rickman, Treasurer; April McIver, Executive Director; Terence O’Brien, Editor. Board of Directors: Anthony D. Altimari, Paul Belli, Marc Breslaw, Louis J. Buttermark, Harris Clark, Alex Greenberg, Nicholas Katragis, Angelo Lemodetis, Lawrence J. Levine, Scott Lyons, Barr Rickman, Richard Turchiano

THE PLUMBING FOUNDATION’S ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Since its establishment in 1986, the Plumbing Foundation has worked diligently to ensure the plumbing industry has as little a “carbon footprint” on New York City as possible. The plumbing industry has historically utilized environmentally friendly materials such as recycled cast-iron and copper piping/fittings. The Foundation will continue in its role of protecting New York City as well as being an advocate for the environment by strengthening its water/sanitary regulations and thereby reducing wasteful water consumption in the City.

NYC City Council: Season of Hearings

Citizens Air Complaint Program Oversight Hearing

On September 18, 2024, following a rally hosted by the Trucking Association of New York (TANY), in which the Plumbing Foundation participated, which highlighted concerns with the Citizens Air Complaint Program, the NYC Council Committee on Environmental Protection, Resiliency and Waterfronts held a hearing on several pieces of legislation related to the program, including a bill proposing to increase idling fines. The Citizens Air Complaint Program is an anti-idling program whereby private citizens record and submit video complaints of idling vehicles to the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in order to receive a percentage of the fines recovered by the city. The room was packed as the hearing started with an introduction by Chairman Jim Gennaro, who explained the importance of idling laws while recognizing the flaws with the existing program, putting forth a piece of legislation that seeks to reform the program, Int. 941. The Plumbing Foundation supported the legislation with amendments, as explained in more detail below. The bill on the agenda seeking to increase idling fines, Int. 291, was also emphasized by Sponsor and Council Member Julie Menin. However, the Plumbing Foundation opposed any increase in fines until the program is reformed to ensure a fair process. The first testimony was presented by NYC DEP Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala which was a mix of true statements like regarding the unfortunate behavior of citizens engaged in the program and how there should be a flat fee for recovery, shocking statements like the fact these tickets are not even being issued in the environmental justice communities and that the 2019 to 2024 increase in complaints went from 9,000 (2019) to 80,000 (2023) to an expected 120,000 by the end of 2024, and outlandish statements like increasing fines up to even $10,000 to incentivize companies to electrify their fleets and/or install anti-idling technology on their vehicles, which can cost, per the Commissioner, $5,000–$11,000 per vehicle. How a small business could make such an investment in its fleet when constantly hit with fines and red tape across the City was not thoroughly addressed. When the Commissioner was asked what the percentage of complaints submitted were deemed fraudulent, he shied away from the data and merely said it is low. There was not much hard data shared on the impact on the number of idling vehicles since the program’s inception, either. Several organizations and individuals testified on both sides of the issue, with some—but few—citizens focused on the actual health- related impact and many focused on the opposition to a flat or decreased fee and the inconvenience of having a 5-day timeframe to submit complaints (per proposed Int. 941). None seemed to address the due process concerns from the other side. In support of reforming the program, alongside the Plumbing Foundation, was TANY, the NY Metropolitan Trucking Association, New York State Energy Coalition, Inc., the Mechanical Contractors Association of New York, Subcontractors Trade Association, and many others who cited similar problems with the program. As mentioned, Chairman Gennaro introduced Int. 941 to reform the Citizens Air Complaint Program, such as by changing the time threshold to 3 minutes within a 60-minute period. We recommended consideration of the state’s existing threshold (5 minutes) as well as vehicle type considerations as well. Executive Director April McIver highlighted that the time threshold set forth by the city seemed arbitrary and should be taken into consideration by the Council. Int. 941 also would allow the exception of 15 minutes in a 60-minute period to provide heating or air-conditioning to passengers on board a bus depending on the temperature. Executive Director McIver raised concerns that employers are obligated under the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to protect workers from cold stress and heat-related illnesses. This type of situation should be considered by the Council in making reforms to the program as well. The bill also proposes reforms to cure deadlines and requires complaints to be filed within 5 days of the observation, as well as prohibits submission of false or misleading complaints. These are good first steps to reforming the program but more should be done to ensure the constitutional protection of due process is met and evidence is easily and immediately available to the respondent. As our contractors know, there are serious due process concerns, as was explained to the Council by Executive Director McIver. There have been extreme inconsistencies between the time an idling incident was observed, to when the complaint was submitted, to when the summons was issued, to when the court date was scheduled. There have also been ongoing concerns with the lack of access to evidence prior to a hearing date to ensure preparedness for a proper defense. Further, to cure behavior of drivers, it is hardly impactful if summonses are not received for 6, 9, or even 12 months after the date of the alleged idling incident. Chairman Gennaro heard testimony for approximately four hours. Both sides expressed their concerns passionately, but we are optimistic that the legal and safety concerns expressed by those stakeholders like the Plumbing Foundation will be addressed in legislation. As was expressed in the hearing by Executive Director McIver, efforts to mitigate harmful emissions are important to our environment and health, but a citizen-run complaint program should not be exempt from the requirements for due process and in lieu of the safety of our members. We will continue to keep the industry apprised of our efforts.

Hearing on Gas Inspections & Plumbing Code Enhancements

Another critically important NYC Council Hearing will be held on October 16, 2024 by the Committee on Housing & Buildings. The Committee will be hearing Int. 429 which makes necessary changes to Local Law 152 of 2016, the periodic inspection of gas piping law, reinstates the Master Plumber and Master Fire Suppression License Board which was nixed in the 2022 Code, as well as proposes practical changes to the provisions on emergency work and ordinary plumbing work, and finally proposes to give the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) more latitude on seizing vehicles & tools associated with unlicensed work. The proposed changes to LL152 include clarifying and streamlining the process for owners to obtain certification of no gas piping or if their building has gas piping, certification it is not being supplied with gas; requiring that the inspection is conducted by an LMP or individual under the LMP that is a journeyman plumber registered with the DOB; clarifying that the scope of the inspection; replacing “imminently dangerous” with “immediately hazardous” conditions to ensure law aligns with industry training; and clarifying the provision on reporting and correction of unsafe or hazardous conditions to adopt industry training and terminology, e.g., use of “abnormal operating conditions” (AOC) and to distinguish between immediately hazardous and non-immediately hazardous AOCs. The Plumbing Foundation plans to testify at the hearing alongside industry stakeholders in support of this legislation, in the interest of public health and safety.

Important NYC DOB Service Notices

Violations for 2023 Failure to File Annual Boiler Inspection Report and Failure to File Affirmation of Correction – The Department will issue violations in September 2024 for failure to file an annual inspection report in 2023 for high pressure and low-pressure boilers. Violations for failure to file an affirmation of correction for defects reported on high-pressure and low-pressure boiler inspection reports for 2023 will be issued in October 2024. Visit: www.nyc.gov/assets/buildings/pdf/boilervios-sn.pdf Extension of Expiration Date of Limited Gas Work Qualifications Issued before January 1, 2020 – All Limited Gas Work Qualifications issued before January 1, 2020, will expire on December 31, 2024, regardless of the issuance date. The Department of Buildings is extending the expiration date of Limited Gas Work Qualifications issued before January 1, 2020, to provide a full 5-year term to those who obtained the qualifications before the date they were required by Local Law 150 of 2016. The Limited Gas Work Qualifications cannot be renewed or reissued after expiration. Visit: www.nyc.gov/assets/buildings/pdf/limited_gas_follow_up-sn.pdf Gas Work Qualification Written Examination – Effective August 1, 2024, the Gas Work Qualification written exam will be administered as an open-book exam. The Examination Content Outline section of the Gas Work Candidate Information Bulletin will be provided in electronic format within the exam platform at the testing center. No reference materials will be permitted in the testing center. Visit: www.nyc.gov/assets/buildings/pdf/gasworkexam-su.pdf

New Gas Operator Qualification Requirement for Task 87A

As we have notified the industry of, Con Ed requires OQ in Covered Task 34A (performing pressure test on a pipeline) as of May 10, 2024. Con Edison will require contractors testing gas service and gas meter piping to have Operator Qualification in CT87A (the plumbers’ version of 34A) to certify these tests. The Gas Working Group, namely the Northeast Gas Association, has worked diligently to incorporate this task into Task 87 (maintenance/repairs of U.S. DOT jurisdictional gas piping), creating a new Task 87A. As a reminder, in the meantime if you have a current job requiring Task 34A, a Con Ed person will need to witness the pressure test. Please do not contact Con Ed to obtain this OQ.

For further explanation, please see the Pipecaster insert “87A Pressure Testing Component Flow Chart.”

Recent NYC DOB Disciplinary Actions

The NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) recently posted two disciplinary actions against Licensed Master Plumbers from June 2024, both stipulations for which included, among other violations, actions by the LMPs that constitute cover-up plumbing operations. In both instances, the DOB arrived at addresses linked to the LMP’s permit(s) to find workers that were not under the employment of said LMP permitholder. The violations ranged from 60 day suspensions to $20,000 fines. Again, other violations were found in addition, which begs the question, why aren’t cover-up plumbers subject to stricter penalties? While we absolutely applaud the DOB for taking action against these bad actors, a slap on the wrist is not going to deter what is otherwise a more wide-spread and growing illegal activity across all five boroughs. It puts homeowners and residents at risk of shoddy work when unlicensed contractors are doing work under the false pretense that an actual LMP is overseeing the work. If you know of a cover-up operation, please reach out to info@plumbingfoundation.nyc so we can continue to fight these bad actors in our industry. Also, don’t be a cover-up plumber.

BOLO: Upcoming three-part virtual gas series hosted by the Plumbing Foundation

We are finalizing details for an upcoming free webinar series on several gas related topics, including new Operator Qualification requirements, utility regulation manuals, Local Law 152, as well as the utilities’ plans in the wake of the city and state’s energy transition goals. The webinars are tentatively scheduled for mid October to mid November. We will send an e-blast for registration—if you do not receive our e-blasts, please email info@plumbingfoundation.nyc to get on the list!

DOB License Renewal Reminder

As per the adoption of the 2022 NYC Administrative Code, the time period to renew a license or a certificate of competence with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) is ONLY 1 year past one’s expiration date (see section 28-401.13). Prior to this change in Code, persons had up to 5 years to renew a license with a late fee. Now if a person’s credentials lapse after this 1-year period, they will still be subject to a late fee and be subject to re-examination (could be both written and practical).

THE PIPECASTER is published by the Plumbing Foundation City of New York, Inc.

Lawrence J. Levine, Chairman; Louis J. Buttermark, Vice Chairman; Barr Rickman, Treasurer; April McIver, Executive Director; Terence O’Brien, Editor. Board of Directors: Anthony D. Altimari, Paul Belli, Marc Breslaw, Louis J. Buttermark, Harris Clark, Alex Greenberg, Nicholas Katragis, Angelo Lemodetis, Lawrence J. Levine, Scott Lyons, Barr Rickman, Richard Turchiano

CONGESTION PRICING???

If you have been keeping up with the news all summer—since Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement in June that New York will put an “indefinite” pause to congestion pricing—it might not be in actuality, indefinite. Recent sources say the Gov is working with the MTA on a new pricing plan that is more fair and equitable, but that is TBD. NYC Comptroller Brad Lander announced that on September 27, attorneys representing both sides will present their arguments before a judge in the Riders Alliance v. Hochul and City Club of New York v. Hochul cases to restore congestion pricing. Other lawsuits continue, including a suit filed by the Trucking Association of New York (TANY) which challenges the congestion pricing law under the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The Plumbing Foundation plans to submit an Amicus Brief in support of the lawsuit. The Plumbing Foundation will continue to keep the industry apprised on the status of congestion pricing.

THE PLUMBING FOUNDATION’S ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Since its establishment in 1986, the Plumbing Foundation has worked diligently to ensure the plumbing industry has as little a “carbon footprint” on New York City as possible. The plumbing industry has historically utilized environmentally friendly materials such as recycled cast-iron and copper piping/fittings. The Foundation will continue in its role of protecting New York City as well as being an advocate for the environment by strengthening its water/sanitary regulations and thereby reducing wasteful water consumption in the City.

Hot Water & Heat, the Elephant in the Decarbonization Room; Why Gas is Part of the Solution

By Neil Skidell The energy required to heat our buildings and produce hot water for domestic use is by far the largest use in the built environment and in particular dense urban environments like New York City. It is the “elephant in the room.” There is no debate that our buildings need to follow a path to decarbonization; but this must be done in a logical fashion following the general transformation to renewable resources. Three core principles of cost, carbon, and confidence must be followed to achieve beneficial decarbonization. That’s correct—decarbonization must be beneficial to society and that means it must be achieved without upsetting the delicate balance of real estate operating costs and allowable rents.

What is Decarbonization? And how does it differ from Electrification? Why is Fuel Diversity required?

Decarbonization can be defined as acceleratingtransformationtowardsalow-carbonfuture. Anobleeffortatthemacroorpolicylevelbutverychallengingtoimplement at the micro or building level, especially in cold climates. This should not be confused with electrification, decarbonization is the goal, electrification is merely one tool in the box to help us get there. Electricity by itself is currently an insufficient resource to feed the elephant; it is currently not practical nor possible for a single fuel (Electricity), delivered through a single system (The Grid), using a single technology (Heat Pumps) to always deliver heat and hot water to all buildings and in all weather conditions. Perhaps in the future, or in fantasy land, but not today or even in the next 10 years. The fuel mix and carbon related to electricity production is beyond the scope of this article. Heating and Hot Water in homes and buildings has long been provided by a variety of fuels (Natural Gas, Oil, Propane and Electricity) and system types selected by an engineer or contractor as the most appropriate for the intended use. This allows building owners and operators the choices required to achieve the desired balance of energy & capital cost, carbon, and confidence. It is vital to maintain this choice as not all buildings are created equally, they differ in size, materials of construction, year of construction, types of use and occupancy and with that diversity comes heating and hot water needs that vary greatly.

Political Desire Vs. Reality

Politicians say we need to decarbonize building heating and domestic hot water so let’s just switch to electricity and call it a day. Simple to say and easy to understand but inquiring minds say WHAT? In cold climates? In New York State? So what if it takes about 3x the energy input to heat a building vs cool a building. So what if even using the best available heat pump technology it costs at least 2x and as much as 4x as heating with gas. So what if it requires abandoning infrastructure with 2/3 of its useful life left that was installed as best available technology 10 years ago to comply with banning of #6 oil? So what if it involves disrupting the lives of millions of people to allow unnecessary construction in their apartments that will likely decrease their comfort? So what if in the foreseeable future there are no measurable emissions reductions on a systemic basis? So what if we stop providing basic services to tenants so that building owners can fund this expense and pay the increased operating and utility costs? So what if people die because the electric supply becomes unstable and inadequate? We need to preserve the availability of natural gas as a building fuel in New York State. Energy decisions for critical systems such as heat and hot water must be made considering the three core pillars of cost, carbon, and confidence. To successfully, economically, and safely decarbonize heat and hot water fuel choice is required. Fuel choice should not be a policy decision and is a fundamental requirement to preserve the safety, security, and comfort of our built environment. The real story is that of hybridization, different fuels and different systems all working together to achieve the requirements of cost, carbon, and confidence. No one fuel or solution by itself can achieve decarbonization in the near term. Different fuels have different qualities, cost structures and implementation challenges beyond the scope of this article.

Market Forces will play a role.

To have a thriving market that provides fuels for heating and hot water policy must allow for the best technology to be deployed for each use. Often the best economics AND lowest emissions are provided by a combination of technologies and for that to happen policy must allow the continued use of natural gas. Market forces will dictate the rest of the story. We need to separate the political ideal of Decarbonization from the reality of Decarbonizing buildings in cold climates. People’s lives and economic stature need to be maintained as we, as a society, progress through the transition to clean energy. At the micro level (buildings) it does no good to force economic distress in the form of unneeded capital investment and increased energy costs. To make matters worse, deploying capital and precious operating income to satisfy political folly in the name of improving people’s lives instead of actually improving people’s lives is the worst form of hypocrisy. Neil J. Skidell is the Managing Director, Green Solutions at The PAR Group. He leads the development and implementation of Carbon reduction strategies for commercial, life sciences, healthcare, and multi-family residential customers through the application of state-of-the-art HVAC and Plumbing technologies. He is an expert in the strategic use of technology to solve energy and water safety, conservation, generation and utilization challenges. The PAR Group is New York’s preeminent provider of plumbing, heating & air conditioning, fire protection and green solution services. Neil can be contacted at nskidell@pargroup.com.

Winners of the 2023-24 Eugene and Raymond Cardoza Memorial Scholarship

The 2024 winners of the Eugene & Raymond Cardoza Memorial Scholarship Program have been determined by a panel of Fordham professors. Further information on the scholarship program can be found on the Association of Contracting Plumbers’ website (acpcny.org). Five recipients will receive $5,000 a year towards a collegiate education. As a reminder, all scholarship applications are reviewed by an independent panel of educators and selections are based upon academic achievement, community service, and extracurricular activities. The Trustees of the Promotion Fund and the ACP Executive Board are happy to announce the following 2024 winners: Sean Hasretli, Thomas R. Mansfield, Nicole M. Radliff, Noah S. Rickman, Kamila Utko Congratulations to all the winners, we wish you luck on your future endeavors!

SERVICE NOTICE

NEW REQUIREMENT: Construction Inspection Sign Off Prior to Occupancy Requests in DOB NOW: Inspections

Effective Monday, May 13, 2024, all requests for construction sign off must be submitted in DOB NOW: Inspections. Requests sent by email to ConstructionIR mailboxes will not be processed. Requests for construction sign off are submitted by selecting Construction Sign Off Prior to Occupancy via the Actions tab for DOB NOW: Build jobs and the Request Inspection selection for BIS jobs. Indicate Office Review in the beginning of the Requester Comments section for DOB NOW jobs or the Additional Information section for BIS jobs before stating any additional wording of the request. Requests submitted indicating Office Review will be reviewed by the Quality Assurance Team. There are no changes to the existing process for requesting physical construction inspections. Visit the DOB NOW: Inspections Resources page for the Construction Inspection Sign Off for DOB NOW: Build NB/ALT-CO Jobs and BIS Requesting, Cancelling and Viewing Results guide and additional resources. For assistance, submit an inquiry to the DOB NOW Help Form at nyc.gov/dobnowhelp. For general questions about the construction sign off request process, email QAconstruction@buildings.nyc.gov or call (212) 323-7253.

Empire State University / Construction Trades License Training Corp. 7-Hour Master Plumber and Master Fire Suppression Contractor License Renewal Course

Please see below the SUNY Empire State University / Construction Trades License Training Corp. 7-Hour Master Plumber and Master Fire Suppression Contractor License Renewal Course Schedule for 2024! July 24 • August 21 • September 25 • October 23 • November 20 December 19 (Thursday) or January 8, 2025 (TBD) These courses are all in-house with recorded video. The courses are held at our office at 535 8th Ave, Floor 17, New York, NY 10018. We are not holding virtual courses. You can access registration information here: nyconstructiontrades.org

2024 NYS Legislative Session Wrap-Up

The NYS Legislature had its last “scheduled” session day on Thursday, June 6 but extended session through the early morning of Saturday, June 8. It was similar to 2023 in that it was not the most productive year, with another late budget (passed over the weekend of April 20th) leaving little time for other legislative priorities to move through committees between May and June.

Congestion Pricing

As has been the buzz throughout June, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a pause to the implementation of the congestion pricing program (which was set to start June 30, 2024) citing unforeseen consequences and the impact of COVID on small businesses that are still struggling. The Plumbing Foundation commends the Governor for this action, as it truly will have a negative impact on businesses and residents of the so-called “central business district.” However, this created a last minute frenzy in the state legislature with several ideas proposed to close the gap for the MTA on the expected funding from the tolling program. At one point, Governor Hochul proposed an increase on NYC businesses, but which was not adopted by the Legislature. MTA CEO Janno Lieber has indicated that the MTA may have to increase fares and cut services, halt certain projects, and consider layoffs. As of the date of this printing, NYC Comptroller Brad Lander held a press conference where he and other stakeholders said they are developing a legal strategy to challenge the Governor’s decision.

NY HEAT Act

As a reminder, Governor Hochul proposed the Affordable Gas Transition Act (AGTA) in her executive budget, a similar proposal to the NY Home Energy Affordable Transition Act (NY HEAT Act) whereby the 100-foot rule, a subsidy for new gas hookups, would be eliminated. Fortunately, this was not adopted in the budget but was heavily pushed by the Senate in the final weeks of session; the Senate already passed the NY HEAT Act in March of this year, but sponsors and advocates urged the Assembly to pass. Fortunately, the bill was not a priority for the Assembly, and did not pass.

Modular Construction

As for the Plumbing Foundation’s modular construction legislation requiring all modular construction projects in NYC to comply with licensing requirements, which was passed by both houses in 2022 and vetoed by Governor Hochul, due to several factors including the delayed budget adoption, it did not pass this year. It made it to the Senate Finance Committee but was held amidst talks with the City. The Plumbing Foundation continues to prioritize this legislation as modular construction becomes more prevalent.

Other

The major legislation that did pass both houses at the end of session included: SAFE for Kids Act (requiring parental consent for social media use) and the Child Data Protection Act (prohibiting websites from collecting and using minors’ information without informed consent); Climate Change Superfund Act (creating a climate change adaptation cost recovery program targeting big oil companies, similar to Vermont’s recent law); NYC red light cameras (authorizing an expansion of red light cameras); absentee ballot drop boxes (authorizing local boards of elections to set up absentee ballot drop boxes); and speeding up downstate casino licenses (requiring the Gaming Commission to choose by March 2026). All bills are subject to approval/veto by Governor Hochul. Some of the relevant legislation that failed to pass both houses included: the NY Heat Act (mentioned above); Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act (reducing single use plastics); and the Bucks for Boilers Act (creating new fund to push electrification and prohibiting in-kind replacement of fossil fuel equipment). As always is the case, the state legislature never formally “gavels out” in the event of a need for a special session later in the year. While this is extremely rare, the Plumbing Foundation will notify the industry in such a case.

NYC.ID Now required for DOB NOW Filings

THE PLUMBING FOUNDATION’S ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Since its establishment in 1986, the Plumbing Foundation has worked diligently to ensure the plumbing industry has as little a “carbon footprint” on New York City as possible. The plumbing industry has historically utilized environmentally friendly materials such as recycled cast-iron and copper piping/fittings. The Foundation will continue in its role of protecting New York City as well as being an advocate for the environment by strengthening its water/sanitary regulations and thereby reducing wasteful water consumption in the City. WaterSense^® Partners Save

THE PIPECASTER is published by the Plumbing Foundation City of New York, Inc.

Lawrence J. Levine, Chairman; Louis J. Buttermark, Vice Chairman; Barr Rickman, Treasurer; April McIver, Executive Director; Terence O’Brien, Editor. Board of Directors: Anthony D. Altimari, Paul Belli, Marc Breslaw, Louis J. Buttermark, Harris Clark, Alex Greenberg, Nicholas Katragis, Angelo Lemodetis, Lawrence J. Levine, Scott Lyons, Barr Rickman, Richard Turchiano