AN ACT Relating to antifouling paints on recreational water vessels; amending RCW 70.300.005, 70.300.010, and 70.300.020; creating a new section; and declaring an emergency.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

Sec. 1.  RCW 70.300.005 and 2011 c 248 s 1 are each amended to read as follows:

Antifouling paints and coatings are necessary for the proper performance and preservation of boats and other marine craft. However, many of these substances contain copper, biocides, and other chemicals that are toxic to many aquatic organisms, including salmon. The legislature intends to phase out the use of copper-based and other antifouling paints and coatings that pose an undue threat to the environment when used on recreational water vessels. The legislature also intends to encourage the development of safer alternatives to traditional antifouling paints and coatings.

Sec. 2.  RCW 70.300.010 and 2011 c 248 s 2 are each amended to read as follows:

The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

(1) "Department" means the department of ecology.

(2) "Director" means the director of the department of ecology.

(3)(a) "Recreational water vessel" means any vessel that is no more than sixty-five feet in length and is: (i) Manufactured or used primarily for pleasure; or (ii) leased, rented, or chartered by a person for the pleasure of that person.

(b) "Recreational water vessel" does not include a vessel that is subject to United States coast guard inspection and that: (i) Is engaged in commercial use; or (ii) carries paying passengers.

Sec. 3.  RCW 70.300.020 and 2011 c 248 s 3 are each amended to read as follows:

(1) Beginning January 1, ((2018)) 2021, no manufacturer, wholesaler, retailer, or distributor may sell or offer for sale in this state any new recreational water vessel manufactured on or after January 1, ((2018)) 2021, with antifouling paint containing copper. This restriction does not apply to wood boats.

(2) Beginning January 1, ((2020, no)) 2021, antifouling paint that is intended for use on a recreational water vessel and that contains more than 0.5 percent copper may not be offered for sale in this state.

(3) Beginning January 1, ((2020, no)) 2021, antifouling paint containing more than 0.5 percent copper may not be applied to a recreational water vessel in this state. This restriction does not apply to wood boats.

(2) In developing the report and recommendations in subsection (1) of this section, the department of ecology is directed to review risk assessments, scientific studies, and other relevant analyses regarding antifouling paints and coatings and their ingredients, including their environmental impacts and availability in Washington. The department of ecology shall consult with other affected state agencies and relevant stakeholders as appropriate.

(3) In developing the report and recommendations in subsection (1) of this section, the department of ecology is directed to conduct performance testing, modeling, alternatives assessments, and other related scientific studies as needed or appropriate. This subsection specifically includes, but is not limited to, Washington specific studies to inform regulatory standards for antifouling paints and coatings and their ingredients.

(4) In developing the report and recommendations in subsection (1) of this section, the department of ecology is directed to consider any applicable data or other scientific information available about the sources of copper in Washington's marinas. This information may be included in the report, if appropriate.

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