Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Commerce & Labor Committee

HB 2996

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: Requiring aversive agents in antifreeze products.

Sponsors: Representatives Loomis, Dunshee, Simpson and Morrell.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requires all antifreeze products sold in the state to contain an aversive agent that makes them unpalatable to humans and animals.
  • Authorizes the Director of the Department of Agriculture to order an antifreeze product's removal from retail shelf space if it does not contain the required aversive agent.

Hearing Date: 1/29/08

Staff: Alison Hellberg (786-7152).

Background:

The Washington Poison Prevention Act of 1974 (Act) is administered by the Department of Agriculture. One of the stated purposes of the Act is to promote uniformity with the Federal Poison Prevention Packaging Act. The Act adopts rules and regulations adopted under the federal law.

The Act requires such things as special packaging of household substances. Household substances means any hazardous substance which is customarily produced or distributed for sale for consumption or use and is stored by individuals in the household. Special packaging is required for some products so that it is difficult for children under 5 years old to open or obtain a toxic or harmful substance within a reasonable time.

Summary of Bill:

Antifreeze products manufactured in this state after July 1, 2008 or sold in this state after July 1, 2009 that contain by weight 10 percent or more ethylene glycol, must also include an aversive agent. The Director of the Department of Agriculture must approve the aversive agent and it must be in a concentration sufficient so the antifreeze product is unpalatable to humans and animals.

The Director is authorized to order an antifreeze product's removal from retail shelf space if it fails to comply with these requirements.

Rules Authority: This bill does not contain provisions addressing the rule-making powers of an agency.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 26, 2008.

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