The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to naturally occurring fibrous silicate materials, specifically addressing the definitions and regulations surrounding asbestos-containing building materials. Key changes include the redefinition of "asbestos-containing building material" to include materials with more than 0.25 percent asbestos by weight or area, down from the previous threshold of one percent. Additionally, the bill introduces the term "commercial aggregates," which refers to materials like sand and gravel that may contain naturally occurring fibrous silicate materials. It also clarifies that "naturally occurring fibrous silicate material" includes specific asbestiform minerals that have not been chemically treated or altered.

Furthermore, the bill outlines exemptions from certain regulations, such as the labeling requirements for asbestos-containing materials with a content of 0.25 percent or lower, and it specifies that the use of these materials is not prohibited in new construction or renovations. The bill mandates that facility owners conduct inspections for asbestos-containing materials and maintain an asbestos management plan, but these requirements do not apply to commercial aggregates or materials with low asbestos content. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance safety and regulatory clarity regarding asbestos and related materials in construction and renovation activities.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70A.450.030, 70A.450.060, 70A.450.070