Bill would make e-bike battery safety standards mandatory nationwide
Placed on the calendarS. 389Latest action
Sponsor: Kirsten E. Gillibrand · Senator · NY
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Official title: Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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S 389 would turn voluntary UL battery safety standards into mandatory federal rules for e-bikes and scooters.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill directs the CPSC to adopt three existing UL technical standards as mandatory federal safety rules for lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes, electric scooters, and similar devices within 180 days. Future updates to those standards would automatically become the new federal rule after 180 days unless CPSC finds the change doesn't improve safety. CPSC must also report to Congress within five years on battery-related fires and explosions.
Who does it affect?
Manufacturers, importers, and sellers of e-bikes, electric scooters, and other personal electric mobility devices, as well as consumers who buy and use them.
Why does it matter?
Making the standards mandatory rather than voluntary means companies would be legally required to comply, potentially affecting product costs and design. The change responds to safety concerns linked to fires and explosions from cheaply made or poorly designed batteries.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 4, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate voteYou are here · Jul 29, 2025
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 133.