Data from the FDNY or New York City Fire Department annual reports

Congress to Pass Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Law Backed by New York Lawmakers to Address E-Bike Fires

Dec 18, 2024, 12:30 PM

The U.S. Congress is set to pass bipartisan legislation aimed at creating national safety standards for lithium-ion batteries, a move expected to address the growing number of fires caused by uncertified batteries in e-bikes and scooters. The legislation, included in the upcoming budget bill, has been championed by New York lawmakers, including Senator Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Representative Ritchie Torres, and is supported by the FDNY. Since 2019, such batteries have caused 929 fires in New York City, including 264 in 2024 alone, resulting in 33 deaths and 507 injuries, with 95 injuries occurring this year. The bill mandates the Consumer Product Safety Commission to establish federal standards for battery safety, conduct recalls, and enforce regulations on uncertified imports. Despite earlier opposition from Senator Ted Cruz, the measure is part of a broader effort to improve consumer safety and prevent further tragedies caused by faulty lithium-ion batteries.