SB 1206; Hydrofluorocarbon gases: sale or distribution

SB 1206 prohibits a person from offering for sale or distribution, or otherwise entering into commerce in the state, bulk hydrofluorocarbons or bulk blends containing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) that exceed a specified global warming potential limit beginning January 1st, 2025. SB 1206 requirements, only allowing the use of reclaimed HFCs would promote better recovery of HFCs from equipment during operation and at the end of life, thereby preventing emissions from high-GWP HFCs from millions of installed units. 

SB 1206 prohibits the sale of virgin or new bulk HFCs as defined in the bill language, in accordance with the schedule below:

- Greater than 2,200 GWP starting 1/1/2025
- Greater than 1,500 GWP starting 1/1/2030
- Greater than 750 GWP starting 1/1/2033 

SB 1206 does allow for the sale of any reclaimed HFC, as defined in the bill language. In essence, reclaim sales of all HFCs are allowed as long as the HFCs are from a United States Environmental Protection Agency certified reclaimer.  

Beginning January 1st, 2025, HFCs with a GWP greater than 750 that are not reclaimed shall not be used to replenish any leaks or otherwise service stationary equipment owned or operated by the state. 

SB 1206 directs CARB to post an assessment on its internet website by January 1st, 2025, specifying how to transition the state’s economy, by sector, away from HFCs and to ultra-low GWP or no-GWP alternatives no later than 2035 through maximizing recovery and reclamation and increasing adoption of new low and ultra-low GWP alternative refrigerants.

SB 1206; Hydrofluorocarbon gases: sale or distribution

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