SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1014

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 March 9, 2015

Title: An act relating to antifreeze products.

Brief Description: Concerning antifreeze products.

Sponsors: Representative Appleton.

Brief History: Passed House: 3/02/15, 96-1.

Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 3/20/15.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Staff: Richard Rodger (786-7461)

Background: Engine coolant and antifreeze manufactured or distributed in Washington that contain more than 10 percent ethylene glycol must contain Denatonium Benzoate, a bittering agent, to render it unpalatable to humans and animals. Denatonium Benzoate may also be known under the trade names of Bitrex or Aversion. The minimum concentration required is 30 parts per million, and the maximum is 50 parts per million. Manufacturers, packagers, distributors, recyclers, and sellers of engine coolant or antifreeze must comply. Wholesale containers of 55 gallons or more of engine coolant or antifreeze are exempt from this statutory requirement.

Manufacturers, packagers, distributors, recyclers, and sellers are not liable for injury caused by inclusion of the bittering agent, and manufacturers subject to the bittering agent requirement must maintain a record of the trade name, scientific name, and active ingredients of any agent used, and they must make this information available to the public upon request.

Summary of Bill: Wholesale containers of 55 gallons or more of engine coolant or antifreeze are no longer exempt from the requirement that they contain Denatonium Benzoate, a bittering agent.

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.