California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed legislation aimed at reducing the amount of copper in brake pads -- a bill brake makers applauded after working with legislators to address potential problems with the initial proposal.


The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association and other industry groups negotiated with lawmakers to get final legislation that MEMA says adequately considers unique technical and environmental circumstances in California to reduce copper in brake pads.

The bill was prompted by concerns that the the copper in brake dust that comes off of brake linings as they are used washes into the water system and can harm aquatic life.

Specifically, SB 346 calls for:

* Copper in brake friction materials sold in California to contain no more than 5 percent copper beginning January 1, 2021, and no more than 0.5 percent copper beginning January 1, 2025.

* A timeline that would allow manufacturers of replacement brake friction materials to deplete their non-compliant inventory.

* The creation of an advisory committee to assess alternatives to 0.5 percent copper and an extension process for manufacturers if alternatives are not yet available.

* No fees other than an assessment to help pay for the costs of administering extension requests.

* An exemption for brake friction materials used for certain motor vehicle classes, as well as an exemption on the sale of vehicles or brake friction materials manufactured prior to certain dates.

* Requirements to ensure that alternatives to copper do not create unintended environmental or human health impacts.

"The time horizon may seem a long way off, but we will have to begin immediately on multiple tracks if we are to meet future deadlines and avoid serious financial impacts," McKenna continued. "Our industry is constantly innovating and I'm confident that if we work diligently, we can develop the brake products that both reduce copper dust and work safely in vehicles."

Washington State passed a law restricting the amount of copper in brake linings earlier this year, the first state to do so.