The use of copper bottom paints in Washington State is now secure until January 1, 2026. Thanks in part to the legislative work of Recreational Boating Association of Washington (RBAW) and Northwest Marine Trade Association (NMTA), the previous earlier dates for banning the sale and application of copper bottom paints is now postponed until 2026.

2020 legislative Senate Bill 6210 now tasks the Department of Ecology with conducting a review of information about antifouling paints and ingredients, and preparation of a report summarizing their findings no later than June 30, 2024. As part of their review and report preparation, the department must conduct a public comment process and they must consider public comment before finalizing their report.

We at Waggoner Guide will be following this process and invite fellow boaters to participate in this important process over the coming years that will determine the future of antifouling bottom paints.

For now, and at least the next five plus years, copper bottom paints will still be available.