Recent legislative actions have been taken to address safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries, particularly in electric mobility devices like e-bikes and e-scooters.
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation in July 2024 to ban substandard lithium-ion batteries linked to numerous fires and fatalities in New York City. The laws enforce stricter safety measures for manufacturers and sellers, aiming to prevent incidents caused by faulty batteries.
Similarly, in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, the government announced new product standards in August 2024 for lithium-ion powered e-bikes and scooters to combat the rise in "e-fires." Starting February 2025, these devices must meet stringent testing and certification requirements, with non-compliance resulting in fines up to $825,000. This initiative may also be discussed at a federal level during the upcoming Consumer Ministers Network meeting.
Additionally, the U.S. government is investing over $3 billion to boost domestic production of advanced batteries for electric vehicles, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign sources and enhance safety standards. These funds are part of a broader strategy to support manufacturing and combat climate change.
These legislative measures represent significant steps toward regulating lithium-ion batteries, with the goal of improving safety standards and preventing hazardous incidents.
![View organization page for New York City Fire Department]()
Statement from #FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker on expected passage of federal lithium-ion battery legislation:
“For the last three years, the FDNY has been sounding the alarm about the dangers of uncertified lithium-ion batteries. We have worked tirelessly to stop the injuries, deaths, and extraordinarily dangerous fires that have become all too common with these devices.
“Tuesday night, Congress took a major step towards passing a bill that will help prevent unregulated and uncertified batteries from entering the country, and New York, by requiring the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to create a national safety standard for these batteries. It will allow the CPSC to issue recalls for unsafe devices and conduct enforcement of uncertified batteries coming in through our ports.
“This is incredible news, and we applaud our partners in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate for their strong leadership in passing this critical legislation. Since 2019, 929 fires have been caused by lithium-ion batteries in New York City, injuring 507 people, and resulting in 33 deaths. We know this legislation, once signed into law, will save lives.”
-
![No alternative text description for this image]()
Business Owner specializing in Construction and Drilling Fluids at WB Services Engineering Ltd Contact: 07908 238143 / enquiries@wbservices.uk
2moGreat work 👏