SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1010
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 Reported by Senate Committee On:
Commerce & Labor, April 1, 2013
Title: An act relating to antifreeze products.
Brief Description: Concerning antifreeze products.
Sponsors: House Committee on Business & Financial Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Appleton, Hunt and Haigh).
Brief History: Passed House: 2/18/13, 96-0.
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 3/27/13, 4/01/13 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Holmquist Newbry, Chair; Braun, Vice Chair; Conway, Ranking Member; Hasegawa, Hewitt, Keiser and King.
Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)
Background: Engine coolant and antifreeze manufactured or distributed in Washington that contains more than 10 percent ethylene glycol must contain denatonium benzoate as an aversive agent to render it unpalatable to humans and animals. The necessary amount of the aversive agent is specified in statute. This requirement applies to manufacturers, packagers, distributors, recyclers, and sellers of engine coolant or antifreeze, but does not apply to wholesale containers of 55 gallons or more of engine coolant or antifreeze.
Manufacturers, packagers, distributors, recyclers, and sellers are not liable for injury caused by inclusion of the aversive agent.
A manufacturer who is subject to the aversive agent requirement must maintain a record of the trade name, scientific name, and active ingredients of any aversive agent used and must make this information available to the public upon request.
The Department of Agriculture Weights and Measures Program and city sealers have authority to enforce these requirements.
Summary of Bill: Eliminates the exemption of wholesale containers of engine coolant or antifreeze of 55 gallons or more from the aversive agent additive requirement.
Creates an exemption from the aversive agent additive requirement for spent antifreeze or spent engine coolant stored or transported for disposal in accordance with the applicable hazardous waste management laws.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
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: A veterinarian brought this bill to my attention. Pets and wildlife are attracted to the taste of antifreeze and it is extremely toxic. I talked to members of the industry on this issue and they are supportive.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Appleton, prime sponsor.