S6660

The New York State Senate passed legislation authorizing a study on lithium-ion battery fires and prevention, with Sen. Martinez's bill (S6660, Calendar 1116) approved on a 61-0 vote. The measure comes as the state grapples with a surge in dangerous battery-related fires, with over 150 incidents reported this year and 23 deaths in New York City alone in 2023. Sen. Rhoads, a volunteer firefighter, voted in favor while cautioning that the Legislature should reconsider its broader approach of incentivizing e-bikes with lithium-ion batteries before the study is completed. Rhoads argued the state should "pump the brakes" on e-bike sales and consider a moratorium until the study identifies solutions and the Legislature enacts targeted legislation. He praised Sen. Martinez for bringing the study bill but expressed concern that the chamber continues to create incentive programs that may worsen the problem in the interim. The bill takes effect immediately.

The New York State Senate passed legislation authorizing a study on lithium-ion battery fires and prevention measures. Senate Print 6660, sponsored by Sen. Martinez, was approved on a roll call vote with 58 senators voting in favor. The bill, designated Calendar Number 1035, takes effect immediately upon passage. No debate was recorded during floor consideration of the measure.