PEORIA, Ill. – A state bill sponsored by a Peoria legislator would establish a recycling program for batteries.
Democrat State Senator Dave Koehler’s bill, SB 3686, would require businesses who sell or distribute batteries to develop a recycling stewardship program by 2026.
It would also require businesses to include appropriate labeling for all batteries meant for recycling by 2029.
Medium-sized batteries are defined as ones made for electric scoots and bikes. Koehler says batteries have contaminants that can be harmful for the environment, including mercury, lead, cadmium, and nickel.
“Although using electronic alternatives are great for the environment, the lack of proper disposal of batteries can lead to more environmental harm,” said Koehler. “This measure begins a much-needed detailed plan for battery recycling.”
The bill will be debated in the full Senate after being passed in the Energy and Public Utilities Committee on Thursday.
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