On Wednesday, October 9th, New York City introduced new enforcement powers to address the dangers posed by uncertified lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes and other micromobility devices. These measures respond to a rise in fires and safety incidents linked to these batteries, which have posed significant risks to lives and property throughout the city.
Mayor Eric Adams, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga, and FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announced the regulations under Local Laws 49 and 50 of 2024. Sponsored by Councilmember Gale Brewer, these laws authorize the city to shut down businesses that repeatedly sell uncertified batteries and impose fines of up to $2,000 per device. They build on Local Law 39 of 2023, which mandates that all battery-powered micromobility devices—such as electric bicycles and scooters—meet strict safety standards.
“These unsafe, uncertified batteries pose a real threat to New Yorkers and their property,” stated Mayor Adams. “This administration will continue to do everything possible to enforce the law and protect residents. We know that e-micromobility is a critical tool many New Yorkers use for work and pleasure. But the fact is, fires and deaths caused by these devices are preventable. We need everyone to ensure their own safety and that of their families, neighbors, and first responders. We thank our government partners for their collaboration on this crucial public safety issue.”
The new regulations allow authorities to padlock non-compliant retailers and require businesses to display safety certifications, ensuring consumers have access to vital safety information. The DCWP and FDNY will conduct joint inspections to enforce compliance and provide guidance to businesses.
“Recklessly, repeatedly selling uncertified lithium-ion batteries is criminal, and a critical threat to public safety,” emphasized FDNY Commissioner Tucker. “We thank the mayor and our partners at DCWP for their leadership on this issue. We will continue to use all means possible to seek out the bad actors and ensure the safety of New Yorkers against the threat of these uncertified batteries.”
New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar praised the city’s efforts, noting, “We are doing everything we can to end the scourge of lithium-ion battery fires. Last year alone, there were 268 battery fires, taking 18 precious lives and injuring another 150. In Albany, I authored and introduced Priscilla’s Law to require state licensing of e-vehicles and inspection of e-vehicle batteries. The New York City Council is doing its part, passing Local Laws 49 and 50 authorizing the city to padlock shops selling uncertified batteries, much like the SMOKEOUT Act I passed authorized padlocking shops selling unregulated cannabis. These new enforcement powers will allow us to stop a repeat of HQ E-Bike Repair, a shop that remained open after being cited for violations, only to have a fire that killed four people. With the right tools, together we will end lithium-ion battery fires once and for all.”
City officials urge residents to purchase only certified battery-powered devices to protect themselves and their communities. With increased enforcement and public education, New York City aims to ensure safer use of micromobility while fostering the growth of sustainable transportation.
