Today, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) approved publication for public comment of its proposed mandatory safety standard for lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility products. The proposed rule is intended to address well-documented hazards associated with these batteries, including thermal runaway, fires, and explosions.

The Commission is aware of numerous catastrophic incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, including fatalities, life-threatening injuries, and devastating residential fires. The Commission is also deeply concerned by persistent quality and compliance issues involving imported lithium-ion batteries, particularly those manufactured in the People’s Republic of China, where unsafe and noncompliant products continue to enter U.S. commerce.

Addressing these risks requires a whole-of-government approach. CPSC is grateful to its federal partners for their thoughtful engagement and constructive feedback during the interagency review process, which helped strengthen this proposed rule. The Commission now looks forward to receiving public comment as it works to finalize a strong, durable safety standard that will better protect American consumers while helping ensure a fair marketplace for responsible manufacturers.