This bill seeks to enhance Washington State's battery stewardship program by including electric vehicle (EV) batteries and amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It redefines "vehicle battery" to exclude EV batteries, which are now categorized separately. The Department of Ecology is tasked with creating procedures for identifying entities that accept used vehicle batteries, and retailers are mandated to accept used batteries in exchange for new ones. The legislation also introduces a core charge for vehicle batteries and outlines the responsibilities of wholesalers regarding the acceptance of used batteries. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of proper disposal and recycling to mitigate environmental harm and promote resource recovery.

The bill establishes a framework for producers and retailers to manage the lifecycle of battery-containing products, requiring producers to participate in an approved battery stewardship plan and fund a stewardship organization by January 1, 2027, with additional requirements for medium format and EV batteries starting January 1, 2029. It mandates battery stewardship organizations to submit detailed plans for collection, transportation, and processing of batteries, while ensuring adequate funding and recycling efficiency. The legislation also introduces new regulations for the disposal of covered batteries, prohibiting their placement in waste containers for incineration or landfills, and clarifies that existing regulatory frameworks remain intact. Overall, the bill aims to improve the management and recycling of EV batteries while ensuring public safety and environmental protection.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.205.505, 70A.205.510, 70A.205.515, 70A.205.520, 70A.205.525, 70A.205.530, 70A.555.005, 70A.555.010, 70A.555.020, 70A.555.030, 70A.555.040, 70A.555.050, 70A.555.070, 70A.555.130, 70A.555.140