AB 1509 (Mullin, Berman)—Lithium-Ion Batteries

Overview: AB 1509 would create a recycling program for both loose Li-ion batteries and ones embedded in products to prevent them from being improperly disposed of in the waste stream. Segregating them from our waste stream will significantly reduce the fire and safety risks these batteries impose.

kisspng-battery-charger-mobile-phone-electricity-touchscre-large-battery-5a9522258c8508.1992850215197230455756.png

CAW Position: Sponsor

Status: Senate Environmental Quality Committee

In Context: : Li-ion batteries are lightweight, rechargeable batteries that store high levels of energy in relation to their size. Their high energy density allows them to power portable electronic devices, such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, and power tools.

 When improperly disposed of, these batteries pose a serious fire, health, and safety hazard. As the increased rate of consumption has led to higher levels of batteries that end up in the waste stream, an alarming number of fires have resulted at our material recovery facilities (MRFs), transfer stations, waste collection trucks, and landfills.

 These fires cause immense damage to cities’ and counties’ waste collection and processing vehicles, equipment, and facilities while also endangering the lives of their workers

Summary: Establishes the Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Program within the California Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery (CalRecycle) that requires manufacturers of lithium-ion batteries to provide convenient collection, transportation, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

Current language, analysis, and votes

Supporters:

  • Californians Against Waste (Co-Sponsor)

  • Rethink Waste (Co-Sponsor)

  • California Product Stewardship Council (Co-Sponsor)

CAW Staff Contact: Robert Nunez, (916)443-5422