WashingtonHB 12092025-2026 Regular SessionHouse

Protecting public health and safety by regulating the transfer of sodium nitrite.

Sponsored By: Sharlett Mena (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.

Sodium nitrite sellers face stricter checks

Beginning April 7, 2025, sellers cannot sell or transfer products containing more than 10% sodium nitrite by mass or volume to households or other non-business buyers. Manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, online retailers, and other sellers must verify each business buyer’s legitimate need and employer identification number. They must use a verification system; statements, checkboxes, or accepting terms alone are not enough. Sellers must keep sale and transfer records, including proof of these checks, for three years from the transaction date.

Affected people gain claims, violators face penalties

Beginning April 7, 2025, covered sellers face a $10,000 civil penalty for a first violation and up to $1 million for later violations. The Washington attorney general, a relevant city or county prosecutor, or an affected individual can bring a penalty case. An affected individual who wins a civil case gets the greater of actual financial losses or $3,000, plus reasonable attorney fees and costs. Violations also count as unfair or deceptive practices and unfair competition under Washington’s Consumer Protection Act. Civil penalties do not block other legal actions.

Sodium nitrite warnings inform, sellers must comply

Beginning April 7, 2025, products containing more than 10% sodium nitrite by mass or volume must carry conspicuous warnings before sale. People handling them get the warning “WARNING DANGER: Deadly if ingested,” plus a skull-and-crossbones symbol. Sellers must ensure warning lettering covers at least 2% of the main display panel. Labels must explain the risk of methemoglobinemia, a dangerous blood condition, rapid death, and the need for immediate medical care, including intravenous methylene blue treatment. Ads and electronic displays must show a warning at least as large as the main sodium nitrite description. Shipping or delivery packages must prominently show the symbol when the main panel is hidden, or products are bulk-packed or packaged together. If a federal agency or state department rejects a fully compliant label, businesses must meet as many requirements as it approves.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Sharlett Mena
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Amy Walen
Democratic • House
Beth Doglio
Democratic • House
Cindy Ryu
Democratic • House
Darya Farivar
Democratic • House
Emily Alvarado
Democratic • House
Gerry Pollet
Democratic • House
Julia Reed
Democratic • House
Liz Berry
Democratic • House
Natasha Hill
Democratic • House
Nicole Macri
Democratic • House
Osman Salahuddin
Democratic • House
Timm Ormsby
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 140 • No: 4

Senate vote • 3/26/2025

3rd Reading & Final Passage

Yes: 49 • No: 0

House vote • 2/6/2025