Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Select Committee on Environmental Health

HB 2422

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: Prohibiting the sale of petroleum-based water bottles.

Sponsors: Representatives Chase, Linville, Lantz, Hunt, Anderson and Morrell.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Bans the sell of petroleum-based plastic water bottles.
  • Prohibits state agencies from buying petroleum-based plastic water bottles, unless the top administrative official of the agency waives the prohibition on a case-by-case basis.
  • Establishes that the sale of prohibited water bottles is a civil infraction punishable by a fine of up to two hundred and fifty dollars per day.

Hearing Date: 1/16/08

Staff: Ashley Pedersen (786-7303).

Background:

The Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Model Litter Control Act

The Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Model Litter Control Act (WRRMLCA), or RCW 70.93, is the primary law that guides and directs litter programs in Washington State. In the WRRMLCA, the legislature recognized that there is a fundamental need for a healthful, clean, and beautiful environment. The proliferation and accumulation of litter discarded throughout this state constitutes a public health hazard. Effective litter control and recovery and recycling of litter materials will conserve energy and natural resources. There must be effective programs and systems to accomplish waste reduction and all components of recycling.

Summary of Bill:

Retail Stores, Wholesale Clubs And Vending Machine Providers

Effective January 1, 2010, retail stores, wholesale clubs and vending machine providers may not sell petroleum-based plastic water bottles. This applies to bottles that are one liter in size or smaller. This does not apply to plastic bottles derived from corn or other biological materials.

The Department of Ecology will develop guidelines identifying the specifications of the allowable bottles.

Those selling prohibited bottles may be found to have committed a class 1 civil infraction. They may be fined up to $250 dollars per each calendar day they are in violation.

State Agencies

State agencies may not buy petroleum-based plastic water bottles unless the top administrative official in the agency waives the prohibition on a case-by-case basis. On an annual basis, agencies must publish an explanation of why the use of the prohibited bottles was necessary and a summary of all such instances in the Washington State Register.

Local Governments and School Districts

Local governments and school districts are encouraged to review their purchasing and use of petroleum-based plastic water bottles and, when possible, to limit such purchases.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 10, 2008.

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