The bill aims to reduce microplastic pollution from washing machines in Washington State by implementing new requirements for commercial and industrial washing machines, as well as potential future regulations for residential machines. It establishes that starting July 1, 2028, new commercial and industrial washing machines must be equipped with a microfiber filtration system and display a label informing users about the filter's purpose. Additionally, by July 1, 2034, existing commercial and industrial machines must also be retrofitted with functioning filtration systems. The bill emphasizes the importance of these measures in protecting public health and the environment, particularly given the significant contribution of washing synthetic garments to microplastic pollution in waterways.

The legislation also empowers the Department of Ecology to adopt rules for enforcement and compliance, including the issuance of corrective action orders and civil penalties for violations. First offenses can incur penalties up to $5,000, while repeat offenses may result in fines of up to $10,000. The bill includes provisions for appealing penalties and mandates that all collected fines be deposited into the model toxics control operating account. Overall, the bill represents a proactive approach to addressing the environmental and health impacts of microplastics in Washington's waters.