The proposed bill aims to regulate the sale and transfer of sodium nitrite due to its increasing association with severe health risks, particularly in suicide attempts. It establishes a new chapter in Title 69 RCW, outlining definitions, restrictions on sales, labeling requirements, and penalties for violations. The bill emphasizes the need for "means restriction" as a suicide prevention strategy, highlighting the alarming rise in sodium nitrite-related fatalities and the importance of limiting access to this substance, especially among vulnerable populations.

Key provisions include prohibiting the sale of sodium nitrite to individuals, requiring that it only be sold to verified commercial businesses, and mandating specific warning labels on products containing sodium nitrite. The bill also stipulates that covered entities must maintain records of sales and transfers for three years and establishes civil penalties for violations, which can reach up to $1,000,000 for repeat offenders. The legislation is deemed necessary for the immediate preservation of public health and safety, taking effect immediately upon passage.