(1) The department will conduct a review of information about antifouling paints and ingredients, including information received from manufacturers and others pursuant to this chapter; information on the feasibility of best management practices and nonbiocidal antifouling alternatives; and any additional scientific or technical information and studies it determines are relevant to that review.

(2) The department must submit a report to the legislature summarizing its findings no later than June 30, 2024. Prior to submitting the report to the legislature, the department will conduct a public comment process to obtain expertise, input, and a review of the department’s proposed determinations by relevant stakeholders and other interested parties. The input received from the public comment process must be considered before finalizing the report.

(3) If the department determines that safer and effective alternatives to copper-based antifouling paints are feasible, reasonable, and readily available, then:

(a) Beginning January 1, 2026, no manufacturer, wholesaler, retailer, or distributor may sell or offer for sale in this state any new recreational water vessel manufactured on or after January 1, 2026, with antifouling paint containing more than 0.5 percent copper. This restriction does not apply to wood boats.

(b) Beginning January 1, 2026, antifouling paint that is intended for use on a recreational water vessel and that contains more than 0.5 percent copper may not be offered for sale in this state.

(c) Beginning January 1, 2026, antifouling paint containing more than 0.5 percent copper may not be applied to a recreational water vessel in this state. This restriction does not apply to wood boats.

(4) If the department does not determine by June 30, 2024, that safer and effective alternatives to copper-based antifouling paints are feasible, reasonable, and readily available, then the department must conduct a second review of relevant studies and information on alternatives to copper-based antifouling paints and submit a report to the legislature summarizing its findings no later than June 30, 2029.

(5) Nothing in this section restricts the department from reviewing and restricting antifouling paints under chapter 70A.350 RCW.

Explanatory statement—2021 c 65: See note following RCW 53.54.030.

Effective date—2018 c 94 § 3: “Section 3 of this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 15, 2018].” [ 2018 c 94 § 5.]