Bill > H968

This bill establishes a comprehensive lithium-ion battery stewardship program in Massachusetts designed to promote responsible battery collection, recycling, and disposal. Beginning January 1, 2028, producers of covered batteries must participate in an approved battery stewardship plan through a nonprofit organization, with retailers prohibited from selling batteries from producers not participating in such a plan. The program requires battery stewardship organizations to create detailed plans that include performance goals for battery collection rates, recycling efficiency (at least 60% for rechargeable and 70% for primary batteries), and public awareness. These organizations must establish a statewide network of collection sites, ensuring that at least 95% of residents have a permanent collection site within 15 miles, and provide free, continuous, and accessible battery collection opportunities for all battery chemistries and brands. The bill mandates extensive education and outreach efforts, including developing websites, educational materials, and promotional activities to inform consumers about proper battery disposal. Battery stewardship organizations must submit annual reports detailing their collection rates, recycling efforts, and financial expenditures, and pay an annual fee to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to cover administrative costs. The legislation also prohibits disposing of covered batteries in landfills or mixing them with municipal waste, and includes provisions for safely handling damaged or defective batteries, with penalties for non-compliance and protections for producers collaborating on stewardship efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H968