Requires that a backflow test be performed every ten (10) years, rather than the current yearly inspection.

Rhode Island Senate Bill: Backflow Testing Frequency Change

This bill would change how often backflow prevention devices connected to public drinking water systems need to be tested in Rhode Island. Currently, these devices must be inspected every year. Under this proposal, that requirement would be reduced to once every ten years instead.

Backflow prevention devices are safety mechanisms installed in plumbing systems to stop potentially contaminated water from flowing backwards into the public drinking water supply. They are commonly found in homes, businesses, and other buildings connected to a municipal water system. Regular testing ensures these devices are working properly and protecting the safety of the water supply for everyone in the community.

This bill would primarily affect property owners, businesses, and facilities that are currently required to have annual backflow inspections performed — as well as the licensed plumbers and inspectors who conduct those tests. Property owners could see reduced costs and fewer scheduling requirements, since they would only need to arrange testing once a decade rather than every year. Water utilities and public health regulators would also be affected, as they oversee compliance with these testing requirements.

The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island Senate and referred to the Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee. A hearing was initially scheduled but has been postponed, and as of early April 2026, it remains under consideration by that committee. No final vote has been taken yet.