March 11, 2024
Washington Set to Become 8th State to Enact Fluorescent Ban
Anticipated Governor's signature will officially sunset common fluorescent bulbs in Washington
Washington state is on the brink of becoming the eighth state to enforce a ban on a majority of fluorescent lamps. The proposed legislation, House Bill 1185, which now awaits Governor Jay Inslee's signature, targets the phase-out of mercury-containing fluorescent light bulbs by 2029.
This initiative aligns Washington with Vermont, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Rhode Island, Maine, and Oregon, all of which have taken steps to eliminate these mercury-containing light sources. Notably, Washington's approach offers a more extended transition period, granting manufacturers and retailers a five-year window to comply, a long runway not as prevalent in the legislation of the aforementioned states.
Washington's anticipated 5-year phaseout runway could offer fluorescent lighting enthusiasts in Portland, Oregon, a way to acquire linear fluorescent lamps by driving a few miles across the state border to Washington, as the Oregon ban is scheduled to begin in 2025.
Key Regulations and Exemptions
The upcoming regulations set a clear timeline for the discontinuation of mercury-containing fluorescent lamps. Any such lamps must be properly labeled to inform consumers of their content. The more impactful prohibition comes into effect on January 1, 2029, completely barring the sale of mercury containing compact and linear fluorescent lamps, with certain exceptions for specialized applications like image capture and germicidal use.
Sale Prohibitions:
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Starting January 1, 2029, the sale of compact fluorescent lamps and linear fluorescent lamps is generally prohibited, with certain exemptions.
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Retailers can sell existing stock until July 1, 2029.
Exemptions:
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Special purpose mercury-containing lights and certain products specified are exempt from the sale or purchase prohibitions.
- Exemptions apply to lamps that fall under the category of special purpose mercury-containing lights, including those designed for specific applications such as image capture and projection, with high ultraviolet content, for germicidal use, and others.
Labeling Requirements:
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Effective upon bill passage, the sale of fluorescent lamps containing mercury is regulated, requiring proper labeling.
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Lamps must be labeled with the internationally recognized symbol for mercury and packaging must include specific information about mercury content and disposal guidelines.
End-of-Life Management:
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The bill emphasizes the extension and modernization of stewardship programs for the management of mercury-containing lights at their end-of-life, ensuring safe disposal and recycling.
Legislative Perspectives: Fluorescent Light Sabers
The political momentum behind this bill is strong, driven by a collective understanding of the dangers associated with mercury in fluorescent lighting.
“I recall as a youth finding a box of old fluorescent tubes behind a shop one day and my friends and I playing Star Wars light sabers with them. Little did we know how dangerous those tubes really were,” said Representative David Hackney (D-Tukwila), the bill prime sponsor. “It’s good to know kids in the future won’t be exposed to such situations.”
Senator Sam Hunt and Representative Beth Doglio also emphasized the importance of moving away from mercury-based lighting, acknowledging the environmental and health risks it entails.
Washington's legislative body, recognizing the widespread availability and efficiency of LED lighting as a safer alternative, has taken a definitive stance against mercury-containing products. This decision highlights a broader commitment to reducing toxic mercury pollution, an effort that has included the establishment of a statewide fluorescent bulb recycling program.
Looking Ahead
Governor Inslee is expected to sign the bill. Many may recall that Inslee, a 2020 presidential candidate, identified the climate crisis as his most urgent priority if elected president. With Governor Inslee's anticipated approval, Washington is poised to join seven other states in the regulation of widely available fluorescent lighting products. This move reflects a broader shift towards sustainable practices and LED technologies, away from outdated and hazardous materials.
