FDNY Commissioner Tucker applauds federal partners on expected passage of lithium-ion battery regulation

On Wednesday, December 18, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker hailed a significant victory as Congress is expected to pass critical legislation to regulate lithium-ion batteries, marking a crucial step toward improving the safety of the batteries and micromobility devices in New York City and across the country.

On Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, Congress moved another step closer to passing the “Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act.” The bill will require the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to issue a national safety standard for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used commonly in micromobility devices, including e-bikes and e-scooters, to mitigate fire risks.

“The FDNY has always been the leader in problem-solving like this,” Fire Commissioner Tucker said. “We know the problems we see here are occurring all over the country. This legislation will finally allow everyone to be on the same page when it comes to the safe use of these devices. This federal legislation is the critical piece that was missing in our fight against this problem. We are elated to hear that there will be a law signed soon.”

In October, Fire Commissioner Tucker and other FDNY officials hosted federal partners for a two-day symposium on lithium-ion batteries and related national safety concerns. The event focused on sharing data, discussing public safety risks and shaping a research-and-development agenda to combat the increasing risks of the batteries and the devices they power.

Deaths and injuries resulting from fires caused by lithium-ion batteries are down in 2024 compared to the previous 12 months, FDNY Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn said, adding that the Department’s messaging has played an important role in spreading public awareness about the dangers posed throughout the city.

The FDNY and FDNY Foundation remind you to follow lithium-ion battery safety steps to reduce the risk of fires. Wherever possible, charge and store the devices outside, do not charge unattended, and only use a nationally accredited safety certified device. Plug the device charger directly into a wall outlet, and do not charge your device near exits and points of egress, including your home door, bedroom door or windows (particularly near a window with a fire escape).

The legislation will head to the president’s desk to sign into law.

Learn more about lithium-ion battery safety at FDNYSmart.org.