SB13 Alabama 2011 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Cam Ward

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2011

Title

Antifreeze and engine coolant, addition of bittering agent (denatonium benzoate) required, exceptions

Summary

SB13 would require bittering agent denatonium benzoate in certain antifreeze and engine coolants sold in Alabama and would shield manufacturers from certain liabilities related to that additive, with specific exemptions and local preemption.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill would require antifreeze or other engine coolants containing more than 10% ethylene glycol to include denatonium benzoate at 30–50 parts per million. Manufacturers must maintain records of the bittering agent and make them available to the public on request. It provides a liability limitation for manufacturers, distributors, recyclers, or sellers for injuries or damages caused by the additive, as long as the concentration is within the mandated range, with exceptions if the harm is not caused by the additive. It also preempts local laws or ordinances from imposing different requirements and includes exemptions for vehicle sales and large wholesale containers; the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Manufacturers, processors, distributors, recyclers, and sellers of antifreeze or engine coolant: must ensure products contain the bittering agent and keep public records of the additive.
• Local governments: cannot impose additional or different requirements beyond this bill (preemption).
• Consumers/public: can request access to records about the bittering agent used in antifreeze products.
• Vehicle buyers and wholesale container purchasers (55 gallons or more): exemptions from certain provisions.

Key Provisions

• Any antifreeze or engine coolant with more than 10% ethylene glycol manufactured after January 1, 2012 must include denatonium benzoate at 30–50 parts per million.
• Manufacturers must maintain records listing trade name, scientific name, and active ingredients of the bittering agent; records are public on request.
• Liability limitation for manufacturers, processors, distributors, recyclers, or sellers for losses caused by the bittering agent, as long as the concentration meets the mandate; exceptions apply if the cause of the liability is unrelated to the bittering agent.
• County or municipal governments may not impose additional or different requirements regarding the bittering agent beyond this act.
• Exemptions: the sale of a motor vehicle containing antifreeze and wholesale containers of 55 gallons or more are not subject to these provisions.
• Effective date: the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Antifreeze