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Bill

SB 5045

Expanding the state battery stewardship program to include electric vehicle batteries.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Boehnke and 9 co-sponsors

Washington expands battery stewardship requirements to include EV batteries, making manufacturers responsible for collecting and recycling electric vehicle power sources responsibly.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Environment, Energy & Technology at 8:00 AM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5045

Legislative bill overview

SB 5045 expands Washington's existing battery stewardship program to include electric vehicle (EV) batteries, extending manufacturer responsibility for battery collection, recycling, and proper disposal beyond consumer batteries to vehicle power sources. The bill aims to create a framework ensuring EV batteries are managed responsibly as the state's EV adoption increases.

Why is this important

EV battery recycling addresses environmental and resource concerns—improper disposal contaminates soil and water, while responsible recycling recovers valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. As Washington accelerates EV adoption through clean energy goals, establishing clear stewardship requirements prevents a future waste crisis and supports circular economy principles for critical minerals.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer cost burden: Vehicle manufacturers may argue EV battery stewardship costs will be passed to consumers through higher vehicle prices, potentially undermining EV affordability and adoption goals
  • Program logistics complexity: EV batteries are vastly larger and more complex than consumer batteries, raising questions about collection infrastructure, chain-of-custody tracking, and whether existing stewardship programs can scale appropriately
  • Liability and safety concerns: Who bears responsibility if batteries catch fire during collection or processing? Unclear liability provisions could deter participation from recycling facilities

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

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