The proposed "Safe Battery Collection and Recycling Stewardship Act" establishes a comprehensive electronic waste recycling program in Minnesota, mandating that manufacturers of covered electronics devices participate in a stewardship program by January 1, 2028. The bill prohibits the sale or distribution of covered batteries or battery-containing products without participation in this program. It creates an Electronics Recycling Advisory Task Force, outlines civil penalties for non-compliance, and authorizes rulemaking for effective implementation. The legislation includes detailed definitions related to battery stewardship and requires stewardship plans to achieve specific recycling efficiency rates, ensuring adequate funding for collection, transportation, and recycling efforts.

Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations for battery stewardship organizations, including prohibiting point-of-sale fees for consumers and mandating statewide collection opportunities for all covered batteries. It emphasizes the establishment of permanent collection sites and outlines education and outreach requirements for stewardship organizations. The bill also includes provisions for annual reporting, independent assessments of stewardship plans, and strict disposal regulations for covered batteries, effective January 1, 2028. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance battery recycling efforts, streamline the regulatory framework, and ensure responsible management of battery waste in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 115A.9157