WeVote

Bill

Bill

GM 1311

Informing the Legislature that on June 25, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB242 HD1 SD2 CD1 (ACT 209).

2025 Regular Session

Act 209 establishes a working group in Hawaii to develop recycling and reuse practices for electric vehicle batteries, addressing environmental concerns as EV use rises.

Received.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · GM 1311

Summary of Bill GM 1311: Informing the Legislature of Act 209

Bill Number: GM 1311
Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 25, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB242 HD1 SD2 CD1 (ACT 209)
Status: Received
Introduced: June 25, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 209

Purpose and Intent

Bill GM 1311 serves as a formal notification to the legislature regarding the signing of Act 209, which relates to the management of electric vehicle (EV) batteries in Hawaii. The primary intent of Act 209 is to address the growing environmental concerns associated with the increasing number of electric vehicles and their batteries, particularly focusing on recycling and reuse practices.

Key Provisions of Act 209

  1. Establishment of a Working Group:

    • A working group is created within the Hawaii State Energy Office to explore and recommend best practices for the recycling and reuse of electric vehicle batteries.
  2. Responsibilities of the Working Group:

    • Develop a comprehensive plan for the management of EV batteries, including recycling, reuse, and repurposing.
    • Coordinate with relevant organizations and entities that share similar goals.
    • Provide policy recommendations to the legislature based on their findings.
  3. Composition of the Working Group:

    • Co-chaired by the Chief Energy Officer and the Director of Health, with additional members from various sectors, including:
      • City and County of Honolulu's Department of Environmental Services
      • Hawaii Natural Energy Institute
      • Representatives from the automotive repair, battery energy storage, electronic waste recycling, electric utility, and environmental organizations.
  4. Reporting Requirements:

    • The working group must submit a report detailing their findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2027.
  5. Dissolution of the Working Group:

    • The working group will be dissolved on June 30, 2027.

Impact of Act 209

  • Environmental Protection: The act aims to mitigate the environmental impact of electric vehicle batteries, which are expected to increase significantly as EV usage rises (noted at a 23% increase in registered EVs from October 2023 to October 2024).
  • Industry Collaboration: By involving various stakeholders, the working group seeks to create a comprehensive approach to battery management that includes industry best practices and innovative recycling solutions.
  • Legislative Framework: The recommendations from the working group may lead to new legislation aimed at enhancing battery recycling and reuse, contributing to sustainable practices in Hawaii.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was signed into law by Governor Josh Green on June 25, 2025.
  • It is classified as a proclamation, indicating its formal nature in communicating legislative actions.

This summary provides an overview of GM 1311 and Act 209, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on the environment and industry practices in Hawaii.

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

Sign in to ask a question.