Albany, NY – Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has signed a series of legislative measures aimed at regulating the use of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries, such as e-bikes, mopeds, and scocontinuingers. The new laws come in response to a sharp increase in the number of fires and accidents associated with these devices in New York City.
During a press conference in Albany on Thursday, Hochul cited a particularly tragic incident that illuminated the dangers posed by malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries. In February, a fire triggered by such a battery resulted in the death of 27-year-old Fazil Khan and injuries to 17 other people in a Harlem apartment building.
The governor highlighted the stark rise in related incidents, noting, “In New York City alone, lithium-ion batteries sparked 268 fires that injured 150 people and claimed 18 lives,” a significant increase from just a couple of years ago when there were no fatalities reported.
The newly signed legislation prohibits the sale of lithium-ion batteries that fail to meet specific manufacturing standards. It also mandates state agencies to develop safety protocols and resources for preventing fires. Additionally, the law requires increased training for first responders to better handle situations involving such batteries.
Governor Hochul emphasized the insidious nature of inferior lithium-ion batteries, describing them as “often uncertified, poorly made, sold without safety instructions or precautions, and can malfunction, overheat, ignite, and explode without warning.”
The legislation also places greater responsibility on retailers, requiring them to include operating manuals with devices that use lithium-ion batteries and to attach warning tags to charging cords advising users to unplug them when not in use. In an effort to curb the use of illegal transportation devices, the law stipulates that dealers must register mopeds at the point of sale.
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban supported the legislation, expressing concerns over unregistered scooters and limited-use motorcycles. These often pose risks not only due to reckless driving but also as they facilitate crimes such as chain-snatching and armed robberies. Caban noted that the new regulations would help mitigate these issues from the point of purchase.
Furthermore, under the new laws, any incidents involving e-bikes or e-scooters that result in injury or death will now require a formal report, aligning with existing standards for motor vehicles and motorcycles. Additionally, e-bikes will be required to adhere to traffic laws and yield to pedestrians.
Governor Hochul concluded, highlighting the state’s commitment to public safety education regarding these devices, “Until now, not enough has been done to educate people on how to charge, store, and safely operate these batteries and bikes. Here in New York, that changes today.”
These legislative measures mark a significant step toward enhancing public safety and regulating the growing use of battery-powered transportation devices in urban areas.