I strongly OPPOSE the proposed elimination of the certification program for Backflow Prevention Device Workers. Quite frankly, I can’t believe someone at DPOR thinks it’s a good idea to eliminate the regulation of these much needed workers. Clean water is a necessity and having licensed backflow prevention device installers, testers, and inspectors in the community is an absolute MUST to ensure the integrity of our public water systems is maintained, as is the health and safety of our citizens utilizing those public water systems.

According to your own mission statement, “The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation protects the health, safety and welfare of the public by licensing qualified individuals and businesses and enforcing standards of professional conduct for professions and occupations as designated by statute.” Eliminating the regulation of Backflow Prevention Device Workers would clearly be in opposition of your mission. Citizens could also infer that if the DPOR is not interested in regulating backflow prevention device workers (among others), why do we need DPOR at all? As a concerned citizen I would ask, do you fully understand what backflow prevention device workers do and how important they are? Do you like drinking clean water? Would it bother you to know that your family is drinking contaminated water all because someone thought trained, certified professionals were not needed to ensure backflow devices in the community were installed and operating properly?

Again, I vehemently OPPOSE eliminating the regulation/certification of backflow prevention device workers. Please CONTINUE the certification and regulation of this group of workers. Our communities depend on knowledgeable and skilled workers to keep our water systems safe for everyone.