Bill > AB696

This bill requires the Director of Emergency Services to establish a 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 accidents, and submersion incidents. 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, battery manufacturers, and standards development organizations. The group is required to consult with universities, research institutions, electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturers, and both state and local first responders. By July 1, 2028, the advisory group must develop comprehensive standards and best practices to help first responders safely and efficiently handle emergencies involving lithium-ion vehicle batteries, drawing from local, state, and national guidance and research. The bill includes a new provision that adds a member representing advanced recycling of electric vehicle batteries with expertise in battery recovery and hazard mitigation. These provisions will automatically expire on January 1, 2029, effectively making this a time-limited initiative to improve emergency response protocols for lithium-ion vehicle batteries.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

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