This bill aims to address the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," in agricultural fertilizers and pesticides in Washington State. The legislation mandates the Department of Agriculture to evaluate these chemicals in agricultural products and establish criteria for their registration. Specifically, by December 31, 2026, the department is required to create evaluation criteria for PFAS in fertilizers and pesticides, which will guide the refusal or cancellation of product registrations that do not meet these standards starting December 31, 2027.

Key amendments to existing laws include the addition of provisions that allow the Department of Agriculture to refuse or cancel registrations of fertilizers and pesticides containing PFAS chemicals that do not comply with the established criteria. The bill modifies RCW 43.23.110 and RCW 15.54.436 to incorporate these new evaluation processes and criteria, ensuring that the presence of PFAS chemicals is adequately regulated to protect human health and the environment.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.23.110, 15.54.436