Washington Fashion Sustainability Accountability Act
Governmental Agency: Washington State Legislature
Jurisdiction: Washington, USA
Ref no: S.B 6965 / H.B. 2068
Status: IN REVIEW
The Washington legislature aims to create a policy inspired by the New York Fashion Act that would require large fashion companies operating in Washington to take responsibility for their environmental impact. The bill would mandate the public disclosure of environmental due diligence policies, processes, and outcomes. Sponsored by Senators Nguyen, Frame, Hunt, Kuderer, Lovelett, and Salomon.
Key aspects of the bill include:
Supply Chain Mapping: Subject companies must map at least 50% of their suppliers across all production levels, from raw materials to final production. They must map suppliers and supply chains associated with prioritized risks and disclose the names of the suppliers.
Impact Due Diligence: Subject companies must implement processes to identify, prevent, and mitigate negative environmental impacts. Their approach to due diligence must align with international standards and principles.
Reporting Requirements: Starting July 1, 2025, subject companies must post an environmental sustainability report on their website. This report should include the results from their supply chain mapping and due diligence efforts.
Performance Targets and Annual Reporting: Starting January 1, 2027, subject companies must set, track, and report on performance targets related to: energy and greenhouse gas emissions, water and chemical management, annual volume of material produced, and incorporation of recycled materials. Beginning April 1, 2028, these reports will be submitted annually to the Department of Ecology to monitor progress on performance targets.
Civil Penalties for Noncompliance: Subject companies that violate requirements would have to pay a civil penalty of up to $5,000 for each violation in the case of a first offense. Repeat violators would be subject to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for each repeat offense. These fines will support the Community Benefit Account to finance environmental projects benefiting marginalized communities. Each year, a public list of the fashion retail sellers and fashion manufacturers who are known to be out of compliance would be published by the Washington State Department of Ecology.
-
The Act would apply to fashion retail sellers and manufacturers operating in Washington State that earn over $100 million in annual global revenues.
-
As of January 2024, the bill is currently under consideration by the Senate. A public hearing was scheduled in the House Committee on Environment & Energy on January 11.
