The Copper-Free Brake Deadline Has Passed: What You Need to Know
The January 1, 2025, deadline to meet the requirements in California’s “Better Brakes Law” and Washington’s “Better Braking Law” has arrived (Both laws were passed in 2010.).
All brake pads sold in these states, as of 1-1-2025, must contain less than 0.5% copper by weight to comply with state regulations. Failure to comply could result in significant fines. This change affects both public and private bus operators.
Impact of the Better Brake Law for Buses, Key Highlights:
- New Regulations: California and Washington have implemented regulations limiting the copper content in brake pads to less than 0.5% by weight. The purpose is to reduce environmental pollution from brake wear, as copper can harm aquatic life.
- Deadline Passed: The deadline for compliance was January 1, 2025. Brake pads sold after this date must meet the new standards.
- Compliance: This regulation affects all California and Washington brake pad manufacturers and distributors. It also directly impacts bus operators, who must now source compliant brake pads for their fleets.
- Existing Stock: While the new standard is in effect, the existing stock of B-level brake pads (with up to 5% copper) manufactured before January 1st, 2025, may continue to be used until 2035.
- Enforcement and Fines: Expect increased enforcement and potential fines for non-compliance in both states.
“Along with manufacturing and distribution, the California and Washington state regulations target the ‘installer’ (not the most flattering term) in the law’s language. This means a shop in these states could be fined $10,000 per violation if a non-approved brake pad is installed. However, these fines do not kick in until 2025.” Brake and Frontend, Andrew Markel
SAE Environmental Markings:
To ensure compliance, refer to SAE environmental markings on brake pads:
| SAE Marking | Copper Limit (%) | Effective Date |
| A | 0.01% (Cadmium), 0.1% (Chromium VI, Lead, Mercury, Asbestos) | January 1, 2014 |
| B | 5% | January 1, 2021 |
| N | 0.5% | January 1, 2025 |
For a more detailed explanation of the regulations, including the history of the initiative, please refer to our in-depth article on the Better Brake Law: Copper-Free Brakes for Buses
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