HB 4144
Requires producers of batteries or battery-containing products to join a battery producer responsibility organization and implement a battery producer responsibility program for the collection and recycling of batteries.
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
92%
Oppose
8%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires manufacturers of batteries and battery-containing products to join a battery producer responsibility organization and implement a program for collecting and recycling those batteries. The Department of Environmental Quality will oversee the program, and a dedicated fund will be established. Civil penalties will be imposed for non-compliance, aiming to reduce battery waste and promote sustainable recycling practices.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
Emerson Levy
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Here is a concise, objective paragraph summarizing the collective views expressed in the testimony summaries supporting HB 4144: Testifiers uniformly support House Bill 4144, citing the urgent need to address battery-caused fires that pose significant risks to health and safety, as well as environmental concerns. The bill's extended producer responsibility program is seen as a necessary measure to manage and recycle single-use and rechargeable batteries, reducing the risk of fires in waste management facilities and infrastructure. Advocates emphasize the importance of establishing safe recycling options for Oregonians, mitigating fire risks, and promoting a circular economy. Many testifiers highlight the need for producers to be held accountable for the waste they create, with some arguing that this approach can incentivize sustainable practices and reduce hazardous materials in the environment.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
Several ed concerns about the proposed bill, citing potential ambiguities and uncertainties related to the inclusion of electric youth off-highway vehicles in the battery stewardship program due to their small batteries. They also emphasized the need for amendments to adequately address existing battery collection and recycling services, arguing that the current form of HB 4144 falls short in this regard. These concerns center on ensuring clarity and effectiveness in the implementation of the bill, with some testifiers advocating for more comprehensive solutions to mitigate potential issues.
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