North Indy News

U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) has joined as a cosponsor of the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act, a bill aimed at improving safety standards for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes and other micromobility devices. The legislation would require the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to establish final consumer product safety standards to address fire risks associated with these batteries.

“It is critical that Americans can trust that the batteries powering their devices are safe,” said Senator Young. “This legislation will establish clear safety standards, reduce the risk of fires, and protect families from preventable tragedies.”

The measure has received support from the International Association of Fire Chiefs. Chief Ernest Malone, Fire Chief of the Indianapolis Fire Department and Second Vice President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, stated: “I commend Senator Young for his leadership in cosponsoring S. 389, the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act. This bill would codify federal safety standards for lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices. Communities across Indiana face the risk of fires from e-bikes and other e-mobility devices. It is my hope that the full Senate swiftly passes this legislation so we can begin to turn the tide and make these devices fire-safe.”

The bill was first introduced in February by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.) also joined as a cosponsor this week.

The full text of the legislation is available online.