SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5695
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 February 14, 2007
Title: An act relating to biomonitoring.
Brief Description: Authorizing a biomonitoring program.
Sponsors: Senators Fraser, Swecker, Rockefeller, Rasmussen and Regala.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 2/15/07.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE
Staff: Rhoda Donkin (786-7465)
Background: Biomonitoring is a process for measuring environmental chemicals in people by
analyzing blood, hair, urine, and breast milk samples for pollutants, synthetic chemicals, and
industrial compounds. It may indicate trends in chemical exposures, identify disproportionately
affected and vulnerable population groups, and link exposures and pollution-related disease.
Biomonitoring data is useful for understanding the links between environmental contamination
and human exposure and potentially related diseases such as cancer. Policymakers can use
biomonitoring data to assess the effectiveness of regulations and to set priorities for regulatory
action.
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducts a national biomonitoring
program. In recent years, CDC has also awarded grants to many states, including Washington,
to plan state biomonitoring programs. With these funds, the Department of Health (DOH)
developed a plan in 2003. The plan identifies biomonitoring priorities concerning chemicals,
environmental settings, and populations for monitoring.
Summary of Bill: A biomonitoring program is authorized in Washington to identify and secure
a long-term funding source for implementing priorities identified for Washington State.
The DOH is required to conduct biomonitoring, in consultation with the Department of Ecology,
local health jurisdictions, and other public health agencies, to assist public health agencies and
policymakers in allocating resources to improve environmental public health.
The DOH must adopt guidelines and model protocols to guide state and local agencies conducting
biomonitoring. These must address analytical methods, protection of human subject rights,
ensuring respect for cultural differences of participants, and criteria for selection of chemicals
under investigation.
By December 1, 2007, the DOH must provide recommendations to the Governor and the
appropriate committees of the Legislature for funding the biomonitoring program.
Appropriation: The sum of $90,000, or as much thereof as may be necessary, is appropriated for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008, from the state toxics control account to the DOH for the purposes of the act.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 31, 2007.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.