Queens, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato voted yes and passed a groundbreaking piece of legislation to target the ongoing crisis of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. Pheffer Amato serves as the prime co-sponsor of A.4938 which makes it illegal to sell lithium-ion batteries for devices, like e-bikes, unless the battery is certified by a nationally accredited testing laboratory. Illegally made or second-hand batteries have been traced back to 200 fires in NYC throughout 2022, which resulted in 6 deaths and over 100 injuries. 

“This is a bold step forward in addressing the problems we face with lithium-ion batteries. By setting a standard and mandating only safety-proven batteries can be sold and operated, we can prevent fires, but also tragic injuries and deaths. This bill holds retailers and sellers accountable. I believe we have more work to do in addressing issues caused by e-bikes and my sleeves are rolled up,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato. Those who violate this new law will be charged with a penalty between $500-$1,000.

Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato is also working to set a new standard and require e-bikes and e-scooters to have license plates and force all operators of e-bikes and e-scooters to have liability insurance.