The bill amends existing Washington state laws regarding asbestos-containing building materials, specifically RCW 70A.450.020, 70A.450.030, 70A.450.060, and 70A.450.070. Key changes include redefining "asbestos-containing building material" to lower the threshold for asbestos content from one-tenth of one percent to 0.1 percent starting January 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill introduces a new definition for "commercial aggregates," which are mixtures of mineral fragments used in construction that may contain low levels of asbestos. The bill also clarifies that certain labeling requirements do not apply to commercial aggregates with an asbestos content of 0.25 percent or lower.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits the use of asbestos-containing building materials in new construction or renovations, with specific exemptions for residential construction, materials already ordered or in possession of contractors as of June 11, 2020, and commercial aggregates. Owners of facilities engaged in specific industrial activities are required to conduct inspections for asbestos-containing materials and maintain an asbestos management plan, which must be updated every five years. However, the requirements for inspections and management plans do not apply to commercial aggregates, streamlining regulations for these materials.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.450.030, 70A.450.060, 70A.450.070
Substitute Bill: 70A.450.030, 70A.450.060, 70A.450.070