New York City Council approves lithium-ion battery trade-in program
NEW YORK -- The New York City Council on Thursday announced new measures to try and prevent fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, which are becoming more common.
More than a dozen people have been killed in fires caused by lithium-ion batteries this year in New York City, compared to six people in 2022.
This year in the city, lithium-ion batteries have sparked 180 fires that injured 101 people and killed 14, according to FDNY.
Officials said cheaper, unregulated batteries seem to be the problem.
So, the City Council passed a bill creating a 2-year e-bike and lithium-ion battery swap program.
"People with uncertified batteries and bikes can surrender their dangerous equipment and receive safe replacements at reduced or no cost," said Council Member Keith Powers.
Delivery workers told CBS New York the regulated equipment is expensive.
"The battery is not cheap. The new one is gonna cost you like $500," one man said.
An e-bike can cost thousands of dollars. The details need to be worked out, but the city will foot the bill for the trade.
"It's a multi-million dollar effort," said Powers.
Gustavo Ajche has been outspoken about deliver workers' rights.
"This is going to be huge help and support to all delivery workers around New York City," said Ajche.
The issue now becomes getting the word out about the program.
Some council members said delivery app companies need to be held accountable, so two other measures were introduced.
"They have their biggest market in the city of New York," said Council Member Oswald Feliz. "Delivery apps pay for these certified e-bikes if the workers do not have certified safe equipment. Now, the fines would be up to a thousand dollars more or less for the first offense."
The other requires third-party apps to provide safety training and other safety equipment.
"A headlight, taillight, reflectors, brakes, helmet and the bell," said Council Member Gale Brewer.
There are about 65,000 delivery workers on the apps in New York City. Though some still use traditional bicycles, many rely on e-bikes.