HB1462 aims to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by phasing out high-global-warming-potential (GWP) HFCs in stationary-refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Starting January 1, 2030, the sale and use of virgin HFCs with a GWP above 1,500 CO₂-equivalent will be prohibited, with a further reduction to HFCs above 750 GWP by January 1, 2033. The law directs the Washington Department of Ecology to establish a refrigerant transition task force and adopt rules to support the transition to low-GWP alternatives. Additionally, state agencies will be prohibited from purchasing virgin HFCs with a GWP of 750 or higher for stationary equipment.
The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB1462 on April 22, 2025 by a vote of 58 to 39. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation advances environmental controls that interfere with the free market and private industry under the guise of combating climate change. By restricting the sale and use of commonly used refrigerants and mandating compliance with arbitrary greenhouse-gas targets, HB1462 aligns with the radical environmental agenda outlined in the United Nations’ Agenda 2030. Such policies not only burden consumers and businesses with higher costs and reduced options, but pave the way for unelected bureaucrats to expand regulatory control over the energy and manufacturing sectors.
