Rep. Tom Campbell
Photo from the Rep. Campbell’s website

“(Olympia) The House Select Committee on Environmental Health voted unanimously for a bill to replace lead wheel weights, now used exclusively, to an environmentally preferred alternative, such as zinc or steel.

House Bill 2143 passed the committee today[Feb. 27] 9 to 0, and now moves to the House floor for action. The measure is sponsored by Rep. Tom Campbell (R-Roy) chair of the committee.

“This is a great idea that is easy to do that will have an impact on the environment, and also on the health of young children,” Campbell said.

He pointed out that the problem with lead wheel weights falling off vehicles end up on and alongside Washington’s state roadways. They can contribute to soil, surface, and groundwater contamination.

Lead is known for its harmful effects to every system of the human body, and it harms individuals of all ages, especially harmful to children, fetuses, and adults of childbearing age.

Campbell said this bill is an quick and easy way to do something constructive for the environment.

If passed, the law will require replacement of lead wheel weights for passenger vehicles and light trucks with lead-free alternatives beginning Jan.1, 2008 for state-owned vehicles, and the following year for all used vehicles registered in the state.
The bill now goes to the House Appropriations Committee,” quoting Rep. Campbell’s Press Release.