Burning Need for Lithium-ion Battery Safety Bills Recognized Following Latest Deadly Fire

by M.C. Millman

In a timely move to quell the fires after yet another deadly blaze on Sunday in the Bronx was blamed on lithium-ion batteries, Mayor Eric Adams signed a package of five lithium-ion battery safety bills today.

Last year, two hundred and twenty fires were caused by lithium-ion batteries causing 147 injuries and six deaths in the City. 

In response to the increase in fires sparked by lithium-ion batteries throughout New York City and after extensive pressure to pass safety mechanisms as reported here, the City Council passed the five-pronged safety bill package last week, which was signed by the mayor today.

The package includes a ban on selling unregulated lithium-ion batteries throughout the five boroughs. Education about the dangers of the batteries, which the FDNY will provide, is another key component, along with the requirement that all e-bikes sold in New York City come with the UL label from the Underwriter Laboratories, the company responsible for testing consumer products.