The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has announced a 5-day Emergency Public Notice and Comment Period regarding the second readoption of emergency regulations for the safe handling of undeployed airbags. Here’s what you need to know and how you can participate in shaping the final rule.
What’s Happening?
The DTSC is extending its emergency regulations to ensure continued proper management of undeployed airbags under conditional exemptions. Initially effective March 15, 2024, and readopted in September 2024, the regulations are set to expire on December 5, 2024, unless readopted for another 90 days.
Purpose of the Proposed Regulations
This second readoption aims to maintain public safety while the DTSC finalizes permanent regulations. The emergency rules allow safe transportation and temporary exemptions for airbag waste under specific conditions.
Key Highlights of the Emergency Regulation
Definitions Introduced:
- Airbag Waste: Materials classified as undeployed or defective airbags.
- Airbag Waste Handler: Facilities handling airbag waste under specific conditions.
- Airbag Waste Collection Facility: Facilities designated for processing airbag waste.
Exemption Guidelines:
- Airbag waste is exempt from hazardous waste regulations during transport or handling under certain conditions.
- Once at a designated facility, airbag waste is subject to hazardous waste regulations.
Safety Provisions:
- Prohibits reuse of defective airbags or inflators under National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recalls.
Comment Period: Your Chance to Be Heard
How to Submit Comments:
- Email:
- OAL: staff@oal.ca.gov
- DTSC: regs@dtsc.ca.gov
- Mail:
- OAL:
Reference Attorney, 300 Capitol Mall, Suite 1250, Sacramento, CA 95814 - DTSC:
Office of Legislation and Regulatory Review, P.O. Box 806, Sacramento, CA 95812-0806
- OAL:
Only written comments will be considered for the official record. Verbal submissions are not accepted.
Why It Matters
These regulations protect public health and the environment by ensuring undeployed airbags are managed responsibly. Stakeholders, including airbag handlers, manufacturers, and environmental advocates, have the opportunity to refine these rules through the comment process.
Next Steps
The DTSC plans to submit the finalized rules to the OAL before the second readoption period ends. Visit the DTSC Emergency Regulations webpage for detailed documents, including the Notice of Proposed Action and the full regulatory text.
Take Action Now
Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to California’s airbag safety regulations. Submit your comments during the 5-day period starting November 22, 2024, and help shape the future of environmental and public safety policies.
