On March 28, 2024, the U.S. State of Washington’s Governor signed Bill HB 1551 to restrict lead in cookware. 

Beginning January 1, 2026, no manufacturer may manufacture, sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use in Washington cookware or a cookware component containing lead or lead compounds at a level of more than five parts per million. 

Beginning January 1, 2026, no retailer or wholesaler may knowingly sell or knowingly offer for sale for use in Washington cookware or a cookware component containing lead or lead compounds at a level of more than five parts per million. 

After December 2034, Department of Ecology (DOE), in consultation with the Department of Health (DOH), may lower the 5ppm lead limit by rule if it is feasible to achieve a lower limit and necessary to protect human health, including the health of vulnerable populations. 

Note:

“Cookware” means any metal pots, pans, bakeware, rice cookers, pressure cookers, and other containers and devices intended for the preparation or storage of food. 

“Component” includes separate or distinct parts of the cookware including, but not limited to, accessories such as lids, knobs, handles and handle assemblies, rivets, fasteners, valves, and vent pipes. 

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