Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Business & Financial Services Committee

HB 2272

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning antifreeze products.

Sponsors: Representative Appleton.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires those who install antifreeze or engine coolant for compensation to add an aversive agent to render the antifreeze or engine coolant unpalatable.

Hearing Date: 1/24/12

Staff: Alexa Silver (786-7190).

Background:

Engine coolant and antifreeze manufactured or distributed in Washington that contains more than 10 percent ethylene glycol must contain denatonium benzoate as an aversive agent to render it unpalatable. The necessary amount of the aversive agent is specified in statute. This requirement applies to manufacturers, packagers, distributors, recyclers, and sellers of engine coolant or antifreeze, but does not apply to those who install engine coolant or antifreeze for compensation. It also does not apply to the sale of a motor vehicle containing engine coolant or antifreeze or to wholesale containers of 55 gallons or more of engine coolant or antifreeze. Manufacturers, packagers, distributors, recyclers, and sellers are not liable for injury caused by inclusion of the aversive agent.

A manufacturer who is subject to the aversive agent requirement must maintain a record of the trade name, scientific name, and active ingredients of any aversive used and must make this information available to the public upon request.

The Department of Agriculture Weights and Measures Program and city sealers have authority to enforce these requirements.

Summary of Bill:

The requirement that an aversive agent be added to engine coolant and antifreeze to render it unpalatable applies to those who install engine coolant or antifreeze for compensation.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 12, 2012.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.