Battery waste presents a serious challenge for Minnesota, with our current recycling systems leading to dangerous results.
- Right now, Minnesotans foot the bill for battery recycling, either via taxes or recycling fees.
- Our current collection system leaves a lot to be desired — most batteries are still ending up in the trash.
- Landfill fires from discarded batteries occur weekly throughout the state and cost millions in tax dollars every year.
- Waste fires are really dangerous for workers, and they are HUGE pollution events that poison the air, water and soil for thousands — like the 2023 fire in Rice County that burned for a whole week.
Proposed legislation (SF 1690/HF 1426) would require manufacturers to fully fund the collection of all electronic waste, ensuring it’s recycled responsibly.
What does this bill do?
- Makes responsible battery recycling FREE for all MN residents
- Creates many more drop-off recycling locations all across the state
- Requires producers to provide consistent, clear education about battery recycling
- Saves tax dollars for local governments and Minnesotans by requiring producers to pay for battery recycling
We are asking for this bill to be heard this month — so send a message to your legislators TODAY in support of better recycling for battery waste!
