SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dave Koehler is highlighting the impact of Illinois’ Battery Stewardship Act and the work underway to make battery recycling safer, easier and more accessible for residents across the state.
"This law is an important step forward for public safety and environmental protection, as every household relies on battery-powered devices," said Koehler (D-Peoria). "From the toys our children play with to the alarm clock that wakes us up every morning, batteries power all aspects of our lives.”
Senate Bill 3686, which became law in 2024, created Illinois’ battery stewardship program, requiring producers of covered batteries sold in Illinois to participate in an approved stewardship plan and encourages residents to participate in the proper disposal of batteries giving them clear and easy to find resources for proper disposal. Furthermore the law states that battery recycling is not only a safety issue but also a resource issue. Proper recycling helps recover valuable materials that can be reused rather than wasted, while reducing the risks associated with improper disposal.
Koehler also pointed to The Battery Network as a key partner in bringing the law to life. As the state-approved stewardship organization, The Battery Network is helping build out collection infrastructure and expand free recycling opportunities for consumers across Illinois.
“Too often, people are left confused on the best way to dispose of their batteries, unaware of the facilities that can allow them to dispose of them safely,” said Koehler. “With this law we are painting a clear picture for disposal, reducing fire risks and keeping harmful materials out of landfills while reusing the precious and finite metals and materials that are held within batteries.”
The Battery Stewardship Act took effect Aug. 9th, 2024, but has taken shape in recent months, moving us from a patchwork network of places to dispose of batteries to a statewide initiative. To find out where you can safely dispose of your batteries, visit The Battery Network's website.
