AB 2153 (C. Garcia) passed out of the Californian State Assembly with 55 votes last week and is now headed to the Senate. AB 2153 represents a collaborative effort between the bill’s author and industry leaders to codify an extremely effective recycling program for lead acid batteries. The bill would require a $1 per battery sale “contribution” by manufacturers to help fund the cleanup of contamination of lead acid battery manufacturing sites throughout the state, including the Exide battery recycling plant contamination which occurred in Assembly member Garcia’s district. In addition, retailers and battery installers would be required to assess a consumer a $1 fee for contribution to the same clean-up fund.
CAWA, along with the Auto Care Association, Battery Council International (BCI), Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE) and Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), has joined efforts in the support of AB 2153 as amended on June 1. The amended bill represents a working compromise between the author and industry, acknowledging both the strength of the existing lead acid car battery recycling system and the negative impact that contamination can have in affected communities.
“CAWA appreciates the opportunity to work in collaboration with industry partners and Assembly member Cristina Garcia to develop a bill that works for all parties involved including manufacturers, retailers and most importantly California’s public,” stated Rodney Pierini, CAWA president and CEO.
For more information about AB2153, visit cawa.org.
