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 effective 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, and it exempts these aggregates from the prohibition on the use of asbestos-containing materials in new construction or renovations.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that facility owners engaged in specific industrial activities must conduct inspections for asbestos-containing materials and maintain an asbestos management plan. This plan must be updated every five years and made available to relevant authorities upon request. However, the requirements for inspections and management plans do not apply to commercial aggregates, thereby easing regulatory burdens on their use. Overall, the bill aims to enhance public health protections while providing clarity and flexibility for the construction industry regarding the use of asbestos-containing 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