In 2010, both the States of California and Washington enacted legislation that will require brake pads sold or installed in both states to have reduced levels of copper and other heavy metals. The legislation was enacted due to claims by environmental groups and regulators that as brake pads wear down, copper and other metals are deposited on roadways where they are washed into streams and rivers. Copper is highly toxic to fish and other aquatic species.
The new brake rules for California and Washington State will place significant compliance requirements for the entire distribution system from the brake pad manufacturers down to installers. While Washington State is in the process of finalizing their rules, California has not yet begun the development of their rules to implement the requirements. However, the laws have several similarities and it is hoped that California’s Department of Toxic and Substance Control will adopt much of Washington’s regulatory scheme.
Learn more at http://www.copperfreebrakes.org/