The "American Iron and Steel" (AIS) requirement from the 2014 Consolidated Appropriations Act is a federal law that requires the use of American-made iron and steel products in certain construction projects. This requirement applies to products that are made primarily of iron or steel, such as pipes, manhole covers, tanks, valves, and structural steel.
The AIS requirement applies to projects that are funded by the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). These funds are used to finance the construction, repair, and expansion of public water systems and sewage treatment facilities.
For contractors working on AIS-covered projects, it's important to understand the requirements and ensure compliance. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
The AIS requirement applies to products made primarily of iron or steel that are used in the construction, maintenance, or repair of a public water system.
All iron and steel products used in covered projects must be produced in the United States. This means that all manufacturing processes, from the initial melting stage through the application of coatings, must occur within the United States.
The AIS requirement applies to all covered projects, regardless of the size of the contract. This means that even if you are a small contractor working on a relatively small project, you are still required to adhere to these guidelines.
In order to comply with the AIS requirement, contractors must be diligent in tracking the source of their materials and be able to provide evidence of their origin upon request. This may involve maintaining detailed records of your purchasing, including invoices and other documentation.
One way to ensure compliance is to work with suppliers who are familiar with the AIS requirement and can provide materials that meet the requirements. Many suppliers have processes in place to ensure that their products are compliant with the act, and working with these suppliers can help streamline the compliance process.
In addition to tracking the source of your materials, it's also important to have processes and procedures in place to respond to any audits or inquiries that may arise. If you are unable to provide evidence of compliance, you risk losing the ability to bid on projects funded by the DWSRF or CWSRF and may even face financial penalties.
Overall, the AIS requirement is an important law that supports American industries and workers. By understanding the requirements and taking steps to ensure compliance, contractors can avoid any delays or complications and continue to participate in projects funded by the DWSRF and CWSRF.
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