The bill aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by promoting the transition to environmentally friendly alternatives and enhancing the use of reclaimed HFCs. It establishes a regulatory framework that includes phased limitations on the sale and distribution of newly produced bulk HFCs based on their global warming potential, with specific thresholds set for 2030 and 2033. The Department of Ecology is tasked with implementing these regulations, which may include adopting lower global warming potential limits and updating definitions to align with federal regulations. The bill also outlines exemptions for reclaimed HFCs and certain applications, as well as provisions for temporary exemptions in cases of economic infeasibility.

Additionally, the bill creates a refrigerant transition task force to study barriers and opportunities for transitioning to low and ultra-low global warming potential refrigerants by 2035. The task force will consist of various stakeholders, including representatives from the private sector, environmental organizations, and labor unions, and is required to submit a report with recommendations by December 1, 2027. The Department of Ecology will use the task force's findings to inform rule-making for the transition to low global warming potential refrigerants, ensuring that the requirements are practical for different sectors. The bill also includes provisions for penalties for violations and stipulates that it will be null and void if specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.60.010
Substitute Bill: 70A.60.010
Second Substitute: 70A.60.010
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70A.60.010
Session Law: 70A.60.010