BARBARA C. HIGGENS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
PLUMBING MANUFACTURERS INSTITUTE

SCHAUMBURG, ILL. — The Forum article by John Koeller appearing in the September issue of CONTRACTOR magazine, "High-efficiency toilets answer questions" (pg. 34), is incorrect regarding the Plumbing Manufacturers Institute's position on AB2496, which would have mandated the use of high-efficiency toilets and urinals in California.

While we certainly recognize his stature in the conservation community and his involvement with this bill, Mr. Koeller does not speak for the Board of Directors of the Plumbing Manufacturers Institute or the PMI membership at large, and was not involved in strategic discussions by the PMI Board in developing PMI's position.

Decisions by the Board of Directors are based upon PMI's mission and principles as embraced by the membership. PMI supports the efficient use of water through harmonized, national programs but not a patchwork approach to same. For these reasons, the PMI Board of Directors took a neutral position on AB2496

PMI applauds the manufacturing and design advances of its members in such areas as water efficiency. Such innovation expands consumer choice and can serve as a marketing edge. PMI's role, however, is to work toward harmonized, uniform requirements across the nation and ultimately throughout the world. Our mission statement says it best:

"To promote the water efficiency, health, safety and quality of plumbing products while maximizing consumer choice and value in a fair and open marketplace.

"To provide a forum for the exchange-of information and industry education.

"To represent the members' interests in the regulatory/legislative processes.

"To enhance the plumbing industry's growth and expansion."