Summary

This bill amends Title 18 of Article 27 of the Environmental Conservation Law to expand the definition of rechargeable battery to include those embedded in consumer products such as toys, appliances, and personal care devices, as well as those used as the principal electric power source for electric scooters and bicycles with electric assist.

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.

As more consumer products are powered by rechargeable batteries, it is important that the definition of rechargeable battery under New York’s extended producer responsibility program continue to evolve and include additional products.

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 consumer products like toys, appliances, personal care devices, electric scooters, and bicycles with electric assist.

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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