The bill seeks to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly alternatives and increasing the use of reclaimed HFCs. It sets forth a phased approach to limit the sale and distribution of virgin bulk HFCs based on their global warming potential, with deadlines established for 2027, 2030, and 2033. Key provisions include a prohibition on the sale of high global warming potential HFCs, penalties for non-compliance, and a requirement for state agencies to prioritize reclaimed refrigerants. The bill also establishes a refrigerant transition task force to identify barriers and opportunities for transitioning to low and ultra-low global warming potential refrigerants, while emphasizing the need for public-private partnerships to support compliance and infrastructure development.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to strengthen the regulatory framework for HFCs, allowing the department to review and modify exemptions in consultation with the department of ecology. It clarifies definitions related to HFCs and introduces new terms such as "bulk," "low global warming potential," and "ultra-low global warming potential," aligning them with existing definitions in RCW 70A.60.010. The bill mandates biennial status reports to legislative committees on implementation and compliance, and includes a provision ensuring that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining sections will still be enforceable.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.60.010