ELYRIA, Ohio — Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake is applauding state laws in California and Washington that reduce the amount of copper allowed in brake friction materials, beginning in 2021.

Bendix says its current line of foundation drum brakes already meet the new mandates. California and Washington are placing limits on copper content to reduce the harmful effect toxic copper brake dust runoff can have on waterways. Rhode Island and New York are also considering similar legislation.

“We commend the lawmakers and the other parties involved who worked hard to bring the legislation to fruition,” said Walt Frankiewicz, president of Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake. “These laws address key environmental needs and, most importantly, bring greater attention to the commercial vehicles used on our nation’s roadways.”

California’s law limits brakes to no more than 5% copper beginning in 2021 with the limit slated to be reduced to 0.5% by 2025. Washington’s law also places a 5% limit for 2021 and an advisory committee will consider lowering it further in subsequent years.

Bendix says its drum brake linings already contain less than 5% copper and are nearly compliant with California’s 2025 restriction. The company’s disc brakes are also compliant with the 2021 requirement.

“Bendix is committed to developing advanced technologies that meet the coming copper restrictions,” said Aaron Schwass, director, foundation brakes at Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake. “Our goal is to provide our customers with cost-effective solutions that comply with state laws, while improving brake service life and contributing to our mission of improving the safety of our highways.”