California's New Embedded Battery Rule: What You Need to Know

Starting January 1, 2025, California is implementing a new regulation under Senate Bill (SB) 1215 that significantly expands its Covered Electronic Waste (CEW) Recycling Program. This law targets battery-embedded products—devices containing batteries that cannot be easily removed by consumers using standard household tools.

Why This Matters

Battery-embedded products pose serious risks during disposal and recycling, including fire hazards and environmental contamination. SB 1215 aims to:

• Improve safe handling and recycling of these products

• Reduce battery-related incidents

• Promote a circular economy

Highlights of SB 1215

Definition of Covered Products

A "covered battery-embedded product" is any electronic device with a non-removable battery. Exemptions include:

• Certain medical devices

• Existing covered video display devices

• Energy storage systems

• Electronic nicotine delivery systems

Manufacturer Responsibilities

• By July 1, 2025: Submit an annual notice to CalRecycle and retailers listing covered and exempt products.

• By October 1, 2025: CalRecycle will set a recycling fee for these products.

• Starting January 1, 2026:

  • Consumers will pay the recycling fee at the point of sale.

  • Products must be labeled with:

    • Manufacturer name or brand

    • Battery chemistry (either on the product or manufacturer’s website)

Recyclers and Collectors

• Must comply with new standards for handling and reporting battery-embedded waste.

• Can begin submitting payment claims for recycling starting April 1, 2026.

Fee Adjustments and Reporting

• August 1, 2026 onward: CalRecycle may adjust recycling fees annually.

• July 1, 2027 onward: Manufacturers must submit annual reports.

• July 1, 2028 onward: CalRecycle may adjust payment rates and create multiple fee categories.

Final Thoughts

California’s SB 1215 is a proactive step toward safer and more sustainable electronics recycling. Manufacturers, retailers, and recyclers should begin preparing now to meet the upcoming deadlines and compliance requirements.

Embedded Battery Products Contain a Battery That Cannot Be Removed Using Household Tools