Batteries come in many different chemistries, sizes, shapes and voltages. Household batteries fall into two main product categories:
- Primary or single-use batteries like alkaline or silver oxide button cell batteries, and
- Rechargeable batteries like lithium ion and nickel metal hybrid batteries.
Used batteries present a unique challenge because when not handled appropriately, they can catch fire or explode, causing damage and endangering the lives of waste workers. Batteries contain valuable materials such as zinc, manganese, and steel which can be recovered during the recycling process. Extended producer responsibility (EPR) serves as a means to manage used batteries responsibly and alleviate the serious issues associated with batteries at the end of life.
In 2014, Vermont enacted the nation’s first single-use household battery EPR law. In its first year of implementation, Vermont increased collection of both single-use and rechargeable batteries by more than 180%. In 2024, New Jersey enacted the Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Management Act, becoming the first state to include electric and hybrid vehicle propulsion batteries in its battery EPR program. Washington passed its battery EPR law in 2023, followed by Oregon in 2026—joining more than a dozen states with similar programs.
Programs
Washington Battery Stewardship
In 2023, Washington passed SB 5144, providing for responsible environmental management of batteries, requiring producers of covered batteries and battery-containing products to participate in a stewardship organization that plans and provides for battery collection and end-of-life management. The law requires producers to create a statewide collection system for portable batteries by 2027 and medium format batteries by 2029. The battery stewardship program will be operated by The Battery Network, a nonprofit organization selected by manufacturers to run a nationwide battery collection and recycling program that complies with state battery stewardship laws, and the program is overseen by the Washington Department of Ecology.
The law also required the Washington Department of Ecology to research the management of electric vehicle batteries and submit a legislative report to the Washington State Legislature. The report, Electric Vehicle (EV) Battery Management Study Final Report, was submitted to the legislature in May 2024.
Oregon Battery Stewardship
In 2026, Oregon passed HB 4144, requiring producers of covered batteries and battery-containing products to join and fund a battery producer responsibility organization that provides free, convenient collection and responsible end-of-life management of used batteries. The law covers portable batteries and medium format batteries weighing up to 25 pounds. Producer responsibility organizations must submit program plans to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) by September 1, 2028, and statewide collection must be operational by July 1, 2029. Collection sites must be located so that 95% of Oregonians live within 15 miles of one, and medium format and damaged or defective batteries will be collected at no cost in every county. The law also prohibits knowingly disposing of covered batteries in the garbage. The program will be overseen by Oregon DEQ.