Bill > SB2050

This bill establishes new regulations for the recycling and disposal of consumer energy storage modules (batteries used in electronic devices) in Texas. The legislation defines consumer energy storage modules and creates rules prohibiting their disposal in standard municipal waste, mixed metal recycling, or general recyclable material streams, with an exception for local collection programs specifically designed for battery recycling. The bill protects individual consumers from liability for inadvertent improper disposal and shields facility operators from legal consequences if batteries are accidentally mixed into waste or recycling streams. Additionally, the bill requires the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to identify businesses and facilities where consumers can properly recycle or dispose of these energy storage modules and to determine which battery types are safe for standard disposal. A "steward organization" is defined as a group of manufacturers collaborating to promote battery recycling. The legislation specifically excludes lead-acid and alkaline batteries from these regulations and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with the commission expected to adopt implementing rules as soon as practicable after the act's effective date.