ALBANY, N.Y. — As the use of e-bikes become more popular across NYS, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a legislative package Thursday to encourage the safe use of e-bikes and increase regulation of lithium-ion batteries, typically found in e-bikes.
Some of the legislation passed includes banning the sale of lithium-ion batteries not up to manufacturing standards, directing state agencies to create safety resources, requiring training for first responders in incidents with those batteries, and requiring retailers to have a tag on e-bikes noting they must follow traffic laws and yield to pedestrians.
“As e-bike adoption increases and battery technology continues to develop, I urge New Yorkers to be aware of safety best practices and to use their devices and chargers properly,” Governor Hochul said. “These laws underscore our commitment to help New Yorkers make educated, safe, smart choices with their purchases of products with lithium-ion batteries and how to best store and use them in order prevent any more tragedies from occurring.”
These new laws are part of the “Buy Safe, Charge Safe” statewide campaign announced earlier this year to raise awareness about the dangers of lithium-ion battery fires. This efforts purpose is to educate New Yorkers about how to properly purchase, use, charge and maintain devices with lithium-ion batteries, and the potential dangers of their improper use.
“E-bikes and other products powered by lithium-ion batteries are being used more and more in our everyday lives, but many consumers are unaware of the potential dangers they pose when not handled properly," Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said. "It’s critical for New York consumers to understand how to safely use, charge and store these products to help prevent accidents and injuries."