New York State’s Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Legislation

Last year, New York State passed a package of legislation aimed at increasing the safety of lithium-ion batteries. This move follows a wave of lithium-ion battery-related fires in recent years, particularly in urban areas where e-bike and micromobility device usage has surged. The new laws are intended to improve consumer safety, fire prevention, and regulatory standardization.

As lithium-ion battery-powered devices such as e-bikes, e-scooters, and mopeds become increasingly popular, the need to enforce manufacturing, labeling, and emergency response protocols for these devices is also growing.

Key Legislative Highlights

The legislative package—signed into law on July 11, 2024—includes several bills with the objective of improving product safety, consumer awareness, and first responder training:

• Product Certification Requirements (S.154F/A.4938-D): Requires that lithium-ion batteries sold in New York State meet testing standards through ISO 17025, ISO 17065, or an OSHA-approved nationally recognized testing lab.
• Fire Hazard Safety and Public Resources (S.8743/A.9338): Mandates the development of statewide safety resources and fire hazard protocols, including second-use battery guidance and standards for micromobility devices.
• First Responder Training (S.8742/A.9337): Directs the State Fire Administrator to provide lithium-ion battery emergency response training for fire departments across New York.
• Consumer Manuals and Labeling (S.7503-B/A.1910-B): Requires retailers to provide operating manuals for e-bikes and related devices, promoting responsible use and charging practices.
• Accident Reporting (S.9419/A.7628-A): Ensures accidents involving e-bikes or scooters that result in injury or death are formally reported to the DMV, bringing consistency with motor vehicle crash investigations.
• Charging Safety Labeling (S.7760-A/A.8102-A): Demands red tag warnings on charging cords to remind users to unplug when not in use, aiming to reduce charging-related fire risks.
• Pedestrian Safety Notices (S.7744-D/A.8310-C): Requires retailers to label devices reminding users to yield to pedestrians and obey traffic laws, with fines imposed for noncompliance.
• Moped Registration (S.7703-B/A.8450-B): Requires mopeds sold in New York to be registered at the point of sale for better tracking and legal operation.

Statewide Education and Prevention Campaigns

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has already trained around 5,000 firefighters on lithium-ion battery emergency response and will expand this initiative.

In addition, a public safety campaign launched earlier this year uses digital ads to inform consumers about proper usage and risks associated with lithium-ion battery-powered products.

How Walden Can Help

Walden stays at the forefront of regulatory changes that affect public safety and infrastructure. If your municipality or organization needs help navigating lithium-ion battery safety regulations or developing emergency response protocols, Walden’s team of engineers and EHS specialists is here to help. Reach out to us today at 516-559-6976 to ensure your projects are in alignment with New York’s newest safety standards.

Want to stay informed about New York lithium-ion battery safety legislation and emerging compliance standards? Explore Walden’s other blogs on lithium-ion battery safety and regulations!

• Preventing and Extinguishing Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
• NYC Council Passes New Lithium-Ion Battery Safety-Related Laws
• Safety Tips for Lithium-Ion Batteries