An act relating to including rechargeable batteries and battery-containing products under the State battery stewardship program

This bill expands Vermont's existing battery stewardship program to include rechargeable batteries and battery-containing products, requiring manufacturers and importers to participate in collection and recycling efforts. The legislation defines covered items as rechargeable batteries weighing under 11 pounds and electronic products with easily removable batteries, while excluding industrial, medical, and non-consumer applications. Producers must either join an approved stewardship organization or establish their own plan to ensure proper collection, transportation, and disposal of covered batteries. The program aims to reduce waste by creating a structured system for managing discarded batteries from consumer electronics and other household devices.