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Bill

SB 686

Environment - Extended Producer Responsibility for Batteries and Battery-Containing Products (Battery Stewardship Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Malcolm Augustine

Maryland requires battery manufacturers to fund collection and recycling programs, shifting end-of-life battery waste costs from municipalities to producers.

Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 686

Legislative bill overview

SB 686 establishes an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program requiring manufacturers and importers of batteries and battery-containing products to manage the collection, transportation, and recycling of their products at end-of-life. The bill creates a producer-funded stewardship organization responsible for coordinating battery collection and processing across Maryland, shifting financial responsibility from municipalities to manufacturers.

Why is this important

Battery waste presents environmental and health risks due to toxic materials like lithium, cobalt, and lead, yet current disposal infrastructure is fragmented and costly for local governments. This legislation addresses growing e-waste streams from consumer electronics and renewable energy systems while potentially reducing the burden on Maryland's waste management budgets by making producers financially accountable for their products' full lifecycle.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Manufacturers may pass increased costs to consumers through higher product prices, or dispute how stewardship organization fees are calculated and distributed
  • Implementation complexity: Small producers and retailers may face compliance challenges establishing collection infrastructure, particularly in rural areas with lower population density
  • Scope ambiguity: Defining which "battery-containing products" fall under the program could create disputes between producers and regulators, potentially excluding or unexpectedly including various devices

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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