The bill amends RCW 46.61.506 to update the standards and procedures for toxicology testing related to driving under the influence of intoxicating substances. Key changes include the specification that breath analysis for alcohol concentration will be based on grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath, and blood analysis for THC concentration will be based on nanograms per milliliter of whole blood. The bill also clarifies that valid analyses must be performed by individuals with a valid permit from the state toxicologist or by laboratories certified or accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 standards for forensic toxicology testing.
Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for breath tests to be admissible in court, including the qualifications of the person administering the test and the conditions under which the test is conducted. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the testing process and allows individuals to challenge the reliability of the tests while ensuring that such challenges do not affect the admissibility of the test results. The bill also specifies the qualifications required for individuals authorized to withdraw blood for testing and establishes conditions for blood sample collection, ensuring that it is performed safely and hygienically.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 46.61.506