A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT to promote voluntary, year‑round water conservation and water use efficiency measures by commercial and industrial water users.
Whereas, North Carolina recognizes that water is our most basic and precious natural resource; and
Whereas, North Carolina has experienced extreme drought in the past several years and expects to experience extreme drought in the future; and
Whereas, the efficient use of water is of utmost importance; and
Whereas, the best and least expensive source of "new" water is improved efficiency in water use; and
Whereas, North Carolina should reward and promote best management practices and leadership efforts in water efficiency; and
Whereas, there are voluntary efforts underway that encourage and promote water use efficiency; and
Whereas, there are commercial and industrial water users that are currently utilizing water conservation measures to the maximum extent possible; Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  G.S. 143‑355.2 is amended by adding a new subsection to read:
"(h1)	Users of water for commercial or industrial purposes may establish a voluntary water conservation and water use efficiency certification program to encourage and promote the use of year‑round water conservation and water use efficiency measures. A water conservation and water use efficiency certification may only be issued to a person that meets the standards set forth under the program, including the implementation of measures that reduce water consumption by twenty percent (20%) or more on an ongoing basis. In order to receive certification from a certification program, a person must utilize the services of a licensed plumbing contractor to measure water flow and inspect equipment for leaks to determine if the applicant is in compliance with the standards of certification program. The State and units of local government shall recognize a certification program organized pursuant to this subsection. A person that receives certification under a certification program will be deemed in compliance with any water conservation measures established pursuant to this section, including the default water conservation measures referenced in subsection (f) of this section, and shall not be required to implement additional water conservation measures during periods of drought or water emergency."
SECTION 2.  This act is effective when it becomes law.