March ’25 at-a-glance … regulations

NAFEM advocates for changes to Washington State definition of cookware 

NAFEM member Wood Stone Corporation, Bellingham, Wash., represented by Dean Tryon and Brian Cunningham, was successful in encouraging state senators to amend HB 1756, changing the definition of cookware to remove large appliances such as refrigerators and ranges. Previous legislation had prevented lead above five parts per million in any “cookware,” regardless of whether it came in contact with food. Charlie Souhrada, NAFEM’s vice president, regulatory and technical affairs, joined the Wood Stone team in meetings with elected officials at the Olympia capitol. The amended language now moves to the House, where negotiations are expected to continue for several months.  

Treasury ceases enforcement of CTA 

In yet another about face, the Treasury Department’s Finance Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) announced that it is ceasing enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). According to the Department, it will soon issue a proposed rulemaking to narrow the scope of the rule exclusively to foreign reporting companies. NAFEM will continue supporting legislation that repeals the current language and makes this relief permanent.  

Useful certification for components in health care facility construction 

The California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAi) offers a voluntary program for review and preapproval of seismic design of supports and attachments for nonstructural components used in health care facility construction in the state. Manufacturers, designers and suppliers are invited to register.