Codes & Legislation

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Public comments submitted to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) by PPI emphasized that USMCA continues to deliver meaningful benefits for all American manufacturers and workers by supporting stable supply chains, providing investment certainty for companies operating across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and long term industrial growth. 

Among the primary topics discussed during congressional meetings was the need to strengthen workforce development initiatives and expand pathways into the skilled trades.

In the United States, the current steel tariff structure is rooted in Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which imposes duties of up to 25% on imported steel, with some increases reaching 50% in recent policy adjustments. These tariffs were designed to safeguard domestic manufacturing and national security interests, but they primarily target raw steel and certain derivative categories, leaving gaps that global suppliers have learned to navigate.

Announced March 4, the initiative, Real Water Technical Assistance (RealWaterTA), refocuses federal resources on technical support and practical guidance for water systems, particularly those facing operational, financial or regulatory challenges.

Modern plumbing infrastructure is so embedded in daily life that it is often taken for granted. Yet its impact on global health is enormous.

Now in its sixth edition, the report delivers a concise but comprehensive view of market performance, competitive shifts, and forward-looking demand trends—built on HARDI’s proprietary data, industry surveys, and expert analysis.

Emergency preparedness for plumbing systems in healthcare is vital, as they must remain operational and hygienic during regular use and crises. Water availability, pressure, and quality directly affect infection control and patient safety.

The 2025 standards are a reminder that regulation is never static. But wholesalers who position themselves as both compliance experts and trusted advisors can turn these challenges into an opportunity to strengthen contractor relationships—and protect their margins in the process.