New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4803

Introduced
10/20/22  

Caption

Requires electric vehicle battery facilities to affix sign developed and produced by DEP to all facility entrances as notification that electric vehicle batteries are on-site.

Impact

The implementation of A4803 is expected to enhance safety protocols at electric vehicle battery facilities across New Jersey. By requiring clear signage about electric vehicle batteries, the bill aims to ensure that first responders are adequately informed about the environment they may encounter. This will improve emergency response measures, possibly reducing the risk of injuries or accidents caused by unexpected hazards. The legislation reflects the growing prominence of electric vehicles and the associated need for enhanced safety measures in managing their operation and storage within the state.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4803 requires the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop and implement a specific warning sign for electric vehicle battery facilities. This sign must indicate the presence of electric vehicle batteries on-site and outline potential hazards associated with these batteries. The act mandates that this sign be affixed at all entry points to such facilities beginning 18 months after the bill's effective date. The primary intent of this legislation is to safeguard first responders who may enter these facilities during emergencies by making them aware of the potential dangers posed by electric vehicle batteries, including risks of fires, explosions, and chemical leaks.

Contention

While the bill generally aims to improve safety, there may be points of contention regarding the penalties for non-compliance. Facility operators who fail to display the required signage face fines ranging from $100 to $250 for each offense, which could be viewed as burdensome by some stakeholders. Moreover, the enforcement of the law by state and local law enforcement may raise concerns regarding the resources required for compliance checks and the implications of imposing penalties on businesses during potentially challenging operational periods. Additionally, debates may arise over the adequacy of the signage's design and clarity, which are essential for ensuring the safety objectives of the bill are met.

Companion Bills

NJ S3276

Same As Requires electric vehicle battery facilities to affix sign developed and produced by DEP to all facility entrances as notification that electric vehicle batteries are on-site.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1251

Requires electric vehicle battery facilities to affix sign developed and produced by DEP to all facility entrances as notification that electric vehicle batteries are on-site.

NJ A4411

Requires electric vehicle battery facilities to affix sign developed and produced by DEP to all facility entrances as notification that electric vehicle batteries are on-site.

NJ S3276

Requires electric vehicle battery facilities to affix sign developed and produced by DEP to all facility entrances as notification that electric vehicle batteries are on-site.

NJ A4922

Requires manufacturers of electric vehicles to label electric vehicle batteries; establishes electric vehicle battery tracking database; establishes guidelines for safe disassembly of electric vehicle batteries.

NJ A1881

Requires manufacturers of electric vehicles to label electric vehicle batteries; establishes electric vehicle battery tracking database; establishes guidelines for safe disassembly of electric vehicle batteries.

NJ A1420

Establishes "Electric Vehicle Battery Repurposing Fund" to support repurposing, remanufacturing, and recycling of electric vehicle batteries; dedicates amounts based on certain sales of electric vehicles.

NJ A1249

Establishes "Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling Task Force" to study ways to safely store, reuse, recycle, and dispose of used electric vehicle batteries.

NJ SB2311

Relating To Electric Vehicle Batteries.

NJ HB1972

Relating To Electric Vehicle Batteries.

NJ AB2886

Recycling: electric vehicle lithium-ion batteries.

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