Bill > AB696

This bill requires the Director of Emergency Services to establish the Lithium-Ion Car Battery Advisory Group by December 31, 2026, to review and advise the Legislature on safety and management policies for lithium-ion vehicle batteries during emergency situations, such as battery fires, vehicle collisions, and submerged vehicle recovery. The advisory group must meet at least quarterly until July 1, 2028, and will include representatives from various state agencies, first responder organizations, vehicle manufacturers, and standards-developing organizations. Members will be appointed from entities like the California Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Toxic Substances Control, Office of the State Fire Marshal, and automobile industry groups. The group is mandated to consult with universities, research institutions, electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturers, and first responders to develop comprehensive standards and best practices for responding to lithium-ion vehicle battery emergencies. By July 1, 2028, the advisory group must develop standards based on local, state, and national research to help first responders safely and efficiently manage these specific emergency scenarios. The provisions of this bill will automatically expire on January 1, 2029.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB696