Summary

This bill amends Title 18 of Article 27 of the Environmental Conservation Law to expand the definition of rechargeable battery to include those used as the principal electric power source for electric scooters and bicycles with electric assist. The bill also requires retailers of eBikes to update their signage to inform consumers of this new definition.

Explanation

Rechargeable batteries reduce solid waste and energy use by having longer useful lives than non-rechargeable batteries, but these batteries still contain toxic metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury. When rechargeable batteries are sent into the solid waste stream and are not properly recycled, toxic contamination can occur in our land, water, and air.

Bicycles powered with electric assist, or “eBikes” are rising in popularity statewide. As more consumers begin using this technology, it is important to expand the definition of rechargeable batteries to include eBikes.

This bill would amend Title 18 of Article 27 of the Environmental Conservation Law by expanding the definition of “rechargeable battery” to include those used to power electric scooters, and bicycles with electric assist. The bill also requires retailers of products with rechargeable batteries to update their signage to reflect this new definition.

By expanding the State’s extended producer responsibility battery recycling program to these additional uses of rechargeable batteries, this bill will help to further protect the health and safety of New Yorkers and our environment.

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