Lawmakers in New York City and statewide have moved to quell the growing number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries used in electric bikes and scooters.
One bill introduced in the state legislature would require all lithium-ion batteries and chargers for sale in New York to meet minimum industry safety standards. Another measure would ban the sale of second-use lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes, e-scooters, and mopeds.
The New York City Council recently approved legislation that would:
- Add restrictions on selling, leasing, or renting powered mobility devices, such as e-bikes and electric scooters, and storage batteries that don’t meet industry safety standards.
- Require the New York Fire Department to annually report on the fire risks associated with powered mobility devices.
- Conduct a public information campaign on the fire risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters.
- Impose restrictions on assembling or reconditioning lithium-ion batteries with cells removed from used batteries and on selling such batteries.
More than 25 lithium-ion batteries in New York City caught fire through Feb. 24 this year, a fourfold increase over the same period in 2022. Some of these fires caused significant damage in residential buildings.
Related Stories
Wood | Jul 8, 2019
Campaign launched to promote ‘climate-smart wood’
The Forest Stewardship Council and other groups aim to help buyers understand and make it easier to locate lumber that meets sustainable forestry standards.
Urban Planning | Jul 8, 2019
U.S. cities experience ‘Doppler shift’ in walkable urban development
The walkability trend is spreading to urbanizing suburbs.
Mixed-Use | Apr 7, 2019
Chicago-area joint venture antes up $1 billion for Opportunity Zone development investment
Decennial Group says it’s looking at 250 potential projects, primarily in America’s heartland and rural areas.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
Silicon Valley cities considering taxes aimed at large employers
The aim is to offset the impact on housing costs and homelessness by tech companies.
Legislation | Apr 18, 2018
Steel and aluminum tariffs raise more questions than answers for domestic suppliers
Are import quotas and a “Buy American” infrastructure mandate in the cards?
Multifamily Housing | Mar 4, 2018
Katerra, a tech-driven GC, plots ambitious expansion
Investors flock to this vertically integrated startup, which automates its design and construction processes.
Reconstruction & Renovation | Dec 21, 2017
Interactive map includes detailed information on historic New York City buildings
The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission launched a new, enhanced version of its interactive map, Discover NYC Landmarks.
Codes and Standards | Aug 24, 2017
OSHA silica dust exposure enforcement begins Sept. 23
Vacuum dust collection, water-delivery systems, and respirators will be required.
Market Data | Mar 22, 2017
After a strong year, construction industry anxious about Washington’s proposed policy shifts
Impacts on labor and materials costs at issue, according to latest JLL report.
Reconstruction & Renovation | Mar 16, 2017
Pols are ready to spend $1T on rebuilding America’s infrastructure. But who will pick which projects benefit?
The accounting and consulting firm PwC offers the industrial sector a five-step approach to getting more involved in this process.
