MEMA and BMC Submit Comments to California on the Brake Friction Materials Proposed Rule 

On Monday, May 23, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and the Brake Manufacturers Council (BMC) submitted comments to California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) on its formal proposed rule regarding motor vehicle brake friction materials.

In 2010, California passed legislation prohibiting the sale of automobile brake pads sold in California containing more than trace amounts of copper, certain heavy metals, and asbestos. The law banned brake pads containing more than trace amounts of heavy metals and asbestos in 2014, banned brake pads containing more than 5 percent copper in 2021, and by 2025 reduces the amount of copper allowed to almost zero. The purpose of this law is to reduce the amount of copper and other toxic substances released from brakes from entering California’s streams, rivers, and marine environment.

“MEMA and the BMC are urging California regulators to provide more clarity and consistency for brake friction materials manufacturers as they continue to make investments to comply with not only California regulations, but also similar regulations in Washington State and the voluntary agreements reflected in the Copper-free Brake Initiative MOU,” said Steve Handschuh, MEMA president and chief executive officer.

Together with the BMC, MEMA has led the effort to advocate on this important issue on behalf of the industry. MEMA and BMC also submitted comments in 2014 on the informal proposed rule. MEMA will be testifying at the DTSC hearing in Sacramento, Calif. on Friday, May 27.