SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1135
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. |
As of May 3, 2011
Title: An act relating to refrigerants for motor vehicles.
Brief Description: Regarding refrigerants for motor vehicles.
Sponsors: House Committee on Environment (originally sponsored by Representatives Finn, Armstrong and Upthegrove).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/05/11, 93-4.
Committee Activity: Environment, Water & Energy: 3/15/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT, WATER & ENERGY |
Staff: Jan Odano (786-7486)
Background: Air conditioning equipment is defined in statute as mechanical vapor compression refrigeration equipment that is used to cool the driver or passenger compartment of any motor vehicle. Currently, air conditioning equipment may not contain any refrigerant that is toxic or flammable, unless the refrigerant is included in the list published by the Environmental Protection Act as a safe alternative motor vehicle air conditioning substitute for chlorofluorocarbon-12. The Washington State Patrol (WSP) may adopt and enforce safety requirements and regulations for motor vehicle air conditioning equipment which must correlate with and conform to the current recommended practice or standard approved by the Society of Automotive Engineers.
Under the federal Clean Air Act, states have the option to implement either federal motor vehicle emission standards or California motor vehicle emissions standards for passenger cars, light-duty trucks, and medium-duty passenger vehicles. In 2005 the Legislature adopted California motor vehicle emissions standards and authorized the Department of Ecology (Department) to adopt rules to implement these emissions standards.
Summary of Bill: Air conditioning equipment may not contain any refrigerant that is toxic or flammable, unless the refrigerant is allowed under motor vehicle emission standards rules adopted by the Department.
The provision allowing the WSP to adopt safety requirements and regulations applicable to motor vehicle air conditioning equipment is removed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.