WHITE PLAINS – New legislation will only allow regulated and graded lithium-ion batteries for electric mobility devices to be sold in Westchester County. The new law, signed by County Executive George Latimer, also requires every retail business in the county that sells e-bikes and electric mobility devices to post a safety notice where they are displayed or delivered to the buyer.
Violators could be fined up to $1,000 per instance.
Latimer said the legislation takes “a significant step in protecting Westchester County from the dangers of lithium-ion battery fires.”
The county has already experienced lithium-ion battery fires with e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards, laptops, a lawnmower, and a drone.
“As a volunteer firefighter, I have witnessed firsthand the damage that these devices can cause,” said County Legislature Minority Leader Margaret Cunzio. “This is a starting point to help protect lives and property and provides the necessary framework to help prevent devastating battery-related incidents.”
