The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has welcomed the passage of the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act (H.R. 1797) by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 15, 2024, as reported by the IAFC.
This legislation mandates the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to develop standards for lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices, including battery chargers, charging cables, external terminals, and freestanding charging stations.
The bill will now move to the U.S. Senate, where companion legislation (S. 1008) is awaiting consideration.
H.R. 1797 aims to improve fire safety by establishing standards to ensure the safe charging of micromobility devices in homes and residences.
Fire departments nationwide have reported an increasing number of fires caused by charging lithium-ion batteries.
This bill represents a significant step towards enhancing the safety of lithium-ion batteries within a critical segment of the market.
The IAFC has been an early and vocal supporter of this legislation.
The organization has also sponsored educational programs for firefighters, focusing on the recognition, response operations, safety, post-incident management, and public education related to fires involving lithium-ion batteries.
Fire Chief John S. Butler, President and Board Chair of the IAFC, commented on the legislation: “This legislation is the first step in making this innovative technology fire-safe.
“I would like to personally thank Representative Ritchie Torres, the sponsor of this legislation, for his steadfast leadership.
“We very much appreciate this assistance at the federal level that will help firefighters and the public.
“The IAFC looks forward to collaborating with our supporters in the Senate to ensure final passage of this bill.”
The IAFC expressed gratitude to several key figures in the legislative process.
Representatives Andrew Garbarino, Yvette Clarke, Patrick Ryan, Jamaal Bowman, Anthony D’Esposito, Adriano Espaillat, and Daniel Goldman, the bill’s original cosponsors, received thanks for their support.
Additionally, Representatives Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Frank Pallone, the chair and ranking member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, were recognized for their efforts in passing this legislation.
As the bill moves to the Senate, the IAFC remains committed to advocating for its passage.
The organization plans to work closely with Senate supporters to ensure the legislation becomes law.
The implementation of these standards is expected to significantly reduce the risk of fires associated with lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices, thereby enhancing public safety.