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Bill

Bill

A 495

Prohibits sale of certain lithium-ion devices; establishes restrictions on sale, lease, or rental of certain bicycles and scooters; creates fire risk awareness campaigns.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Yvonne Lopez and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill restricts lithium-ion device sales and e-bike/scooter rentals while requiring fire safety awareness campaigns to address battery fire risks.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 495

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 495 prohibits the sale of certain lithium-ion devices and restricts the sale, lease, or rental of specific bicycles and scooters—likely those with lithium-ion batteries. The bill also mandates fire risk awareness campaigns related to these devices. This appears targeted at addressing fire hazards associated with lithium-ion battery-powered micromobility devices and consumer electronics.

Why is this important

Lithium-ion battery fires in e-bikes, e-scooters, and related devices have caused injuries, deaths, and property damage in urban areas, particularly in New Jersey. These fires are difficult to extinguish and can spread rapidly in residential buildings. Establishing product restrictions and public awareness could reduce fire incidents, though it also affects the growing micromobility market and consumer access to affordable transportation options.

Potential points of contention

  • Market impact: Restricting e-bike and e-scooter sales may disadvantage the growing micromobility industry and limit affordable transportation alternatives in urban areas, potentially affecting lower-income residents and delivery workers
  • Specificity of restrictions: The bill's language regarding "certain" devices lacks clarity—undefined standards could create regulatory confusion or unintended consequences for manufacturers and retailers
  • Safety versus innovation trade-off: Broad prohibitions might discourage battery safety improvements and technological advances rather than targeting genuinely defective products through existing consumer protection mechanisms

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

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