Far UVC Coalition Successfully Collaborates with California State Senate on SB 1308
In February, a bill (SB 1308) was introduced to the California State Senate requiring the California Air Resources Board to adopt regulations limiting ozone emission concentrations for indoor air cleaning devices to 5 parts per billion (ppb). This proposed regulation would replace the current limit of 50ppb. The bill also proposed banning the sale or offering for sale of devices inCalifornia that exceed the 5 ppb emissions limit, even if previously certified.
To put it simply, this bill would have effectively eliminated the use of existing Far UVC disinfection devices in California and served as a model for the adoption of similarly structured legislation in other states.
In response to the bill, a collective effort driven by a coalition of industry leaders, academics, manufacturers, and philanthropic organizations who support the advancement of Far UVC technology submitted two comment letters opposing the bill unless amended.
The submissions reviewed the proven ability of UV devices to substantially reduce the risk of disease transmission associated with airborne and surface-associated pathogens in a manner that presents minimal health risk. The submission also commented that the bill would have likely eliminated the use ofFar UVC, a technology with the potential to become an important tool for safely reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infections, surgical site infections in healthcare facilities, and infections in other public settings. Additionally, the coalition offered the responsible senate committee the opportunity to engage and further discuss the science of UV technology.
The bill has since been pulled and will not be moving forward.
Limiting airborne disease transmission in occupied public spaces is a key public health goal, and sensible regulation will play a critical role in determining the availability of advancements like Far UVC technology. The coalition is eager to continue to collaborate with legislators to develop and implement balanced, evidence-based policies that promote the safe and effective use of Far UVC disinfection solutions. Commitment to public health, safety, and technological innovation remains the coalition's priority.
