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ARTICLE · 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

California Enacts SB 501, Expanding Battery Stewardship Requirements

Beveridge & Diamond, P.C.
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California Governor Newsom has signed Senate Bill 501, significantly expanding the state's Responsible Battery Recycling Act to include medium-format batteries used in e-bikes, portable generators, and electric lawn equipment. The new law modifies collection obligations for retailers and clarifies when batteries qualify as easily removable, while maintaining core producer responsibilities for battery stewardship programs.

United StatesEnvironment
Paul Hagen
Paul Hagen
K. Russell LaMotte
K. Russell LaMotte
Allyn L. Stern
Allyn L. Stern
Kirstin Gruver
Kirstin Gruver

Introduction

On September 20, 2026, Governor Newsom signed California Senate Bill (SB) 501. The law expands California’s Responsible Battery Recycling Act of 2022 to include medium-format batteries, found in products such as e-bikes, portable generators, electric lawn and garden equipment, and UPS backup systems. SB 501 does not substantively change producers’ core obligations to participate in and fund battery stewardship.

The Responsible Battery Recycling Act of 2022 has not yet been implemented in California, pending CalRecycle’s finalization of implementing regulations (which have been proposed).

Key Changes

  • “Covered batteries” now includes medium-format batteries, in addition to the smaller-format batteries.

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