(1) This section refers to the suspension order required by RCW 70.95.650(3).

(2) When the department deems it necessary, the department shall determine the market price paid for used lead batteries by contacting agents of the secondary smelters historically used to process used vehicle batteries originating in Washington. The department shall determine transportation costs by contacting at least three trucking firms and at least three shipping firms for estimated unit costs to transport batteries to each secondary smelter. If the lowest estimated transportation costs are higher than market price paid for all of the secondary smelters, the department will order a suspension.

(3) The department will notify retailers of any suspension by sending notice to trade organization representatives and other businesses on our vehicle battery program mailing list. (To get on the vehicle battery mailing list call (360) 438-7541.)