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Panel advances bill to require clearer labeling for recyclable lithium and other large batteries
Summary
CS for SB 800 was reported favorably after senators adopted an amendment adding labeling language for lithium batteries and requiring packaging notices that certain batteries must be recycled. Waste haulers testified about frequent fires tied to batteries.
The Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee voted to report favorably on CS for SB 800, a measure updating consumer labeling and manufacturer responsibilities for larger and rechargeable batteries.
Sponsor Senator McLean said the bill updates definitions and packaging so consumers and waste haulers can tell which batteries must be recycled and not placed into the general waste stream. McLean described late-filed amendment barcode 581132 that would require “Li” or “lithium” labeling on packaging for certain batteries so handlers recognize they must be recycled.
Kina Corey of the National Waste and Recycling Association (Florida chapter) told the committee collection crews and post‑collection facilities experience frequent fires tied to batteries and supported the bill. She said one member reported 50 fires last year, with around 80% attributable to batteries, and another reported two to three fires a week at a collection facility.
Industry representative George Kirchner of the Rechargeable Battery Association opposed the bill’s current language, saying it could inadvertently ban the sale of battery‑embedded products (for example, some consumer electronics) and urged committee negotiation to avoid that result. The sponsor said she had received Kirchner’s concerns and welcomed further work to ensure intent matched draft language.
The committee adopted the amendment and reported the committee substitute favorably.
