Bill > A06255

This bill creates a Commission on Battery Fire Safety Practices to comprehensively study the health and safety risks associated with lithium-ion battery incidents for first responders in New York State. The 13-member commission, chaired by the Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, will include representatives from various state agencies and legislative leadership, and will conduct a detailed evaluation of the potential dangers posed by electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage facilities that use lithium-ion batteries. The commission is tasked with investigating specific risks such as high-heat "thermal runaway" fires, potential environmental contamination, necessary protective equipment and procedures for first responders, and the potential costs of specialized training and equipment. The study will examine risks for police, volunteer fire departments, and emergency medical services, and will include at least three public hearings across different appellate districts. The commission must submit a comprehensive written report with recommendations to state leadership within one year, and these recommendations will have the full force of rules and regulations. Notably, the bill recommends halting state purchases of electric vehicles and energy storage facilities until the commission completes its study and provides recommendations to ensure first responder safety.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6255