An auto repair shop owner’s mission to allow Virginians to legally reuse rainwater will now officially become state law, reports WHRO.
Set to be signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin this week and enacted into law beginning Oct. 21, the legislation was first conceptualized by Tyrone Jarvis, the owner of Go Green Auto Care in Newport News, Virginia.
Around a decade ago, Jarvis had begun utilizing a rainwater harvesting system he built himself. It collected rainwater in a large tank, cleaned it, and allowed the shop to reuse it. Not only is this practice a relief on aquifers in the state, but is a great money-saver for the business.
However, shortly after he began collecting rainwater, city officials told Jarvis his shop was in violation of city code. What followed would be a years-long fight, and Jarvis having his building condemned, and his shop forced to temporarily close.
But his story didn’t end there. With the help of Former State Del. David Yancey, Jarvis helped draft statewide legislation that would address problems like the one he was facing in 2018, and leading up to now has helped develop regulation for the law’s implementation.
Now, years later, Jarvis is able to legally reuse rainwater, and has opened up avenues for other businesses and individuals to do the same.
“This incredibly important action will allow everyone in Virginia to use water wisely,” said Jarvis.
