CO SB163

Requires battery producers to participate in and finance state-approved battery stewardship organizations by August 1, 2027, covering the collection, transportation, processing, and recycling of portable and medium-format batteries sold in Colorado

Establishes statewide collection requirements including at least one permanent collection site within 15 miles for 95% of residents for portable batteries by October 1, 2028, and at least 15 permanent sites for medium-format batteries by January 1, 2029

Prohibits point-of-sale fees to consumers and requires stewardship organizations to reimburse local governments and collection sites for demonstrable costs, including labor and storage

Sets recycling efficiency rate targets of at least 60% for rechargeable batteries and 70% for primary batteries, with annual reporting requirements to the Department of Public Health and Environment

Creates the Battery Stewardship Fund funded by a $50,000 one-time plan review fee, $86,000 administrative fee upon approval, and ongoing annual fees, with violations subject to administrative penalties up to $15,000 per day or civil penalties up to $25,000 per day