Bill > S556

This bill establishes a comprehensive lithium-ion battery stewardship program in Massachusetts, requiring producers of covered batteries to implement a battery collection and recycling plan starting January 1, 2028. The program mandates that producers participate in a battery stewardship organization and develop a plan that includes collection, recycling, and public education components. Key provisions include requiring collection sites within 15 miles for 95% of residents, setting recycling efficiency targets of at least 60% for rechargeable batteries and 70% for primary batteries, and establishing specific requirements for battery collection, marking, and disposal. Retailers will be prohibited from selling batteries from producers not participating in an approved stewardship plan, and battery stewardship organizations must provide free collection of all battery chemistries and brands, develop educational materials, and submit annual reports to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. The bill also includes safety provisions for battery collection, penalties for non-compliance, and requires an assessment of battery-containing product end-of-life management by December 31, 2028. The overall goal is to create a comprehensive, environmentally responsible system for managing lithium-ion battery waste in Massachusetts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S556