Bill > HB788

This bill establishes a working group within the Hawaii State Energy Office to address the growing challenge of electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling and reuse. Recognizing that EV sales in Hawaii account for approximately 15% of new car sales in 2024, the bill aims to develop comprehensive strategies for managing batteries at the end of their automotive lifecycle. The working group will include representatives from various sectors such as EV manufacturing, automotive repair, energy storage, and environmental organizations, and will be co-chaired by the chief energy officer and the director of health. The group's primary responsibilities include developing best management practices for EV battery recycling, coordinating with relevant organizations, and creating policy recommendations. By June 2026, the working group must submit a detailed report to the Legislature analyzing opportunities and barriers to battery reuse and recycling, comparing in-state and out-of-state recycling options, assessing cost and environmental impacts, and evaluating the feasibility of establishing a comprehensive EV battery recycling program. The working group will be dissolved on June 30, 2026, after completing its mandate.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=788&year=2026