Following a change to HB24-1344 Sunset Plumbing Board during the 2024 legislative session, it became law on July 1, 2024, that backflow assembly testers must be licensed plumbers. Serious concerns with the impact of this change to cross-connection and backflow prevention programs were expressed to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Fortunately, in response to a request from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to use statutory discretion regarding disciplinary actions, the Colorado State Plumbing Board convened an emergency meeting July 17, 2024, and provided relief for the testing community until further discussion can occur.

The Colorado State Plumbing Board determined that through April 2025, certified cross-connection control technicians can continue inspecting and repairing backflow prevention devices and will not be subject to discipline if they are not a licensed plumber. This allows the General Assembly the time and ability to fully consider this requirement and hear from stakeholders across the state.

The Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program protects the public water supply from pollutants and contaminants that could, under certain circumstances, be drawn into the public water supply from private properties.

Please see the Backflows page for additional District infomation.