The proposed bill establishes comprehensive regulations for the management and recycling of electric vehicle (EV) batteries at the end of their life cycle, emphasizing producer responsibility. Key provisions require battery providers to register with the Department of Ecology by January 1, 2026, and ensure responsible end-of-life management of spent batteries. The bill prohibits solid waste collection companies and handling facilities from accepting propulsion batteries for disposal starting June 1, 2029. It also outlines the responsibilities of secondary handlers and users in coordinating with specialized battery recyclers, mandates annual reporting on battery management, and emphasizes environmentally responsible practices to recover valuable materials while avoiding harmful disposal methods.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and regulations, including the establishment of an electric vehicle battery recycling account funded by fees from battery providers, which will cover the costs of implementing the new regulations. It sets penalties for non-compliance, allowing for civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation per day, and up to $10,000 for repeated violations. The legislation also amends existing laws to include definitions for various battery types and introduces a "battery management hierarchy" prioritizing waste prevention, reuse, and recycling. A new chapter, the Electric Vehicle Battery Management Act, is created within Title 70A RCW, ensuring that if any part of the act is invalidated, the remainder remains enforceable, thereby promoting environmental sustainability in battery management practices.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.355.090, 70A.555.010
Substitute Bill: 70A.355.090, 70A.555.010