Committee advances bill to prohibit 6PPD in most vehicle tires by 2035, adds rural exemption

The House Environment and Energy Committee moved a substitute version of HB 24 21, a bill that would prohibit 6PPD and identified substitutes in vehicle tires by 2035, but added an exemption for many rural counties east of the Cascades.

Committee staff summarized the substitute as narrowing the bill to a 2035 prohibition on 6PPD (and identified substitutes) in vehicle tires and excluding tires subject to federal specifications for agencies such as the Department of Defense and NASA. Representative Abel offered amendment 483 to exempt rural counties east of the Cascade crest; the committee adopted the amendment by voice.

During debate, proponents said the measure is designed to reduce "urban runoff mortality syndrome" and to push the tire market toward non‑6PPD alternatives. Representative Stearns argued that to be effective the policy should be applied statewide so market pressure drives alternatives. Opponents, including Representative Barno, said banning 6PPD before a safe, affordable alternative exists risks safety and would raise tire costs substantially; Barno noted testing alternatives could take seven to ten years.

After discussion and roll call, staff announced the committee—s vote: 11 ayes, 9 nays, and one excused. By that vote the proposed substitute HB 24 21 was reported out of committee with a due pass recommendation. The transcript records the committee—s debate about affordability, testing timelines for alternatives, and green infrastructure measures to reduce 6PPD runoff as alternative policy options.

The committee did not enact final statutory language in session; the report-out indicates the bill will move forward in the legislative process.