Bill > H0999

This bill, titled the "Refrigerant Safety and Agricultural Continuity Act," aims to address the transition to new types of refrigerants, specifically "A2L refrigerants" which are classified as lower toxicity and mildly flammable, and are being mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to replace older refrigerants like R-410A. The bill recognizes that Florida's agricultural industries, crucial for food processing and maintaining a cold chain for product safety and export, rely heavily on refrigerant systems, and the rapid shift to A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B, poses potential risks of fire, equipment failure, and insurance issues, with significant economic impacts. To manage this transition, the bill requires the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (referred to as the "department") to provide an annual report to the Legislature by January 1st, starting in 2027, detailing safety performance data for A2L refrigerants, the availability of compliant equipment and trained technicians, insurance and liability standards, recommendations for readiness, and updates on federal regulations. Additionally, the department is authorized to collaborate with educational institutions and industry groups to enhance training and certification programs for the safe handling of these new refrigerants, with the entire act taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

Housing, Agriculture & Tourism Subcommittee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/999