Authority continues support for SB 501 to expand producer responsibility for medium‑format batteries

The Del Norte Solid Waste Management Authority voted to continue supporting SB 501, a state bill that staff said was amended to focus on medium‑format rechargeable batteries commonly found in electric bikes and scooters.

Director Ward described SB 501 as a "gut and amend" of a previous extended producer responsibility bill and recommended the board maintain its support for the measure in its revised form. "Staff are recommending that we continue to support SB 501 as an extended producer responsibility bill for medium format battery," Ward said.

A motion to continue the authority’s supporter position was moved and seconded and carried unanimously with no public comment.

The authority’s support will be recorded in correspondence with legislative contacts per established advocacy procedures.