The bill aims to enhance Washington's drug take-back program by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to improve reporting requirements, fee structures, and enforcement mechanisms. Key modifications include the introduction of new reporting elements for program operators, which require detailed descriptions of their collection systems, public education efforts, and future collection goals that must meet or exceed previous years' targets. The Department of Health is tasked with evaluating these reports for compliance, and civil fines of up to $2,000 can be imposed for noncompliance, with each day of violation considered a separate offense.

Additionally, the bill establishes that program operators must independently meet all requirements of the drug take-back program, ensuring their collection efforts are comparable to those of other operators. It sets specific thresholds for the weight of drugs collected, with civil fines applicable if operators fall below these standards. The bill also mandates that civil fines be reported as an independent expenditure category in annual reports and repeals several existing laws related to drug take-back programs, effective January 1, 2030. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the effectiveness and accountability of the drug take-back program, ultimately promoting better public health outcomes and environmental safety.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 69.48.100, 69.48.110, 69.48.120, 69.48.130, 43.131.424