Title: An act relating to the phosphorus content in dishwashing detergent.

Brief Description: Regarding the phosphorus content in dishwashing detergent.

Sponsors: Representatives Blake, Moeller, Orcutt and Newhouse.

Brief History: Passed House: 3/08/07, 88-8; 2/19/08, 95-0.

Committee Activity: Water, Energy & Telecommunications: 2/27/08 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON WATER, ENERGY & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Rockefeller, Chair; Murray, Vice Chair; Honeyford, Ranking Minority Member; Delvin, Fraser, Hatfield, Holmquist, Morton, Oemig, Pridemore and Regala.

Staff: Sam Thompson (786-7413)

Background: Phosphorous is a naturally occurring element that stimulates plant growth. When introduced into freshwater, it promotes weeds and algae and can degrade water quality.

Beginning July 1, 2010, sale or distribution for sale of dishwashing detergent containing 0.5 percent or more phosphorous by weight is prohibited throughout the state. This prohibition takes effect on an accelerated basis, beginning July 1, 2008, in Clark, Spokane, and Whatcom Counties.

Sale and distribution of detergents for commercial and industrial uses are exempt from the phosphorus limitation.

Summary of Bill: The prohibition on sale or distribution for sale of dishwashing detergent containing 0.5 percent or more phosphorous by weight in Clark and Whatcom Counties beginning July 1, 2008, is deleted. Prohibitions in Spokane County beginning July 1, 2008, and statewide beginning July 1, 2010, are retained.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This legislation relieves distribution problems faced by manufacturers and retailers if phosphorus-containing dishwashing detergent is prohibited this year in Clark and Whatcom Counties. They need more time to adjust.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Blake, prime sponsor.