CA AB1759

Requires oil refineries using hydrogen fluoride, hydrofluoric acid, or modified hydrofluoric acid to send biannual notices to all businesses, schools, child care facilities, libraries, churches, community facilities, senior facilities, and residences within 3.5 miles of the refinery, with costs paid by the refinery operator.

Establishes two warning zones: a "lethal zone" within 2 miles where residents may be exposed to life-threatening toxins (ERPG-3 level), and a "long-term illness zone" between 2-3.5 miles where residents may experience serious health effects (ERPG-2 level).

Mandates that businesses handling more than 250 gallons of hydrogen fluoride or hydrofluoric acid must convert to a significantly less hazardous substitute by January 1, 2017, or cease operations if located within 2 miles of a residential dwelling.

Requires refinery operators to file copies of notices and distribution lists with the State Air Resources Board, with violations subject to civil penalties.

Takes effect immediately as an urgency statute to address public health risks from hydrogen fluoride exposure.