Senate reviews SB 615 to enhance electric vehicle battery recycling in California

California's Assembly Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss the pivotal SB 615, a bill aimed at addressing the impending challenges of electric vehicle (EV) battery management. The bill, which has garnered strong support from various stakeholders, seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for the recycling and repurposing of EV batteries as they reach the end of their life cycle.

Daniel Barad from the Union of Concerned Scientists emphasized the urgency of the bill, noting that California is on the brink of a significant wave of EV battery retirements in the next five to ten years. SB 615 proposes an extended producer responsibility model, ensuring that manufacturers are accountable for the collection and recycling of batteries, thereby alleviating the burden on consumers and local governments. The bill also includes stringent tracking and reporting requirements to prevent batteries from being improperly disposed of and mandates that only certified recyclers handle these materials, safeguarding both workers and communities.

Jordan Wells from the California State Association of Counties highlighted the growing number of registered EVs in California, which surpassed 1.2 million in 2023. He pointed out that local governments are already facing challenges with hazardous waste management as EV batteries begin to enter household hazardous waste facilities. The rising costs associated with this management are impacting local budgets, making the timely passage of SB 615 critical to prevent illegal dumping and ensure proper handling of these valuable yet potentially hazardous materials.

The committee meeting also featured public support for the bill, with representatives from various organizations, including Californians Against Waste and the Ford Motor Company, voicing their backing. However, some opposition was noted, particularly from Tesla and other manufacturers, who expressed concerns about the bill's implications for smaller entities in the industry.

As the committee deliberates, the importance of SB 615 cannot be overstated. If passed, it would not only set a precedent for effective EV battery management in California but also serve as a model for other states grappling with similar issues. The committee's decision will have lasting implications for environmental safety, public health, and the future of electric vehicle technology in the state.