The bill aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by promoting the transition to environmentally sustainable 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 if sufficient reclaimed refrigerant is available. The bill also outlines exemptions for certain uses and establishes penalties for violations.

Additionally, the bill creates a refrigerant transition task force to study and recommend pathways 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. The Department of Ecology is required to adopt rules based on the task force's findings, ensuring that the transition is feasible for different sectors. The bill also includes provisions for administrative support for the task force and specifies that it will be disbanded upon submission of its final report.

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