FL H1067

Repeals existing battery requirements (s. 403.7192, F.S.) and creates new "Safe Battery Collection and Recovery Act" establishing battery stewardship programs, effective July 1, 2026

Beginning January 1, 2028, prohibits producers and retailers from selling covered batteries or battery-containing products unless the producer is a member of an approved battery stewardship organization

Requires battery stewardship organizations to submit 5-year plans to the Department of Environmental Protection by January 1, 2027, including collection site networks, recycling efficiency targets of at least 60% for rechargeable and 70% for non-rechargeable batteries, and education/outreach strategies

Mandates collection site coverage within 3 years of plan approval: at least one permanent site within 15-mile radius for 95% of residents for portable batteries, and at least 10 permanent sites statewide for medium format batteries

Establishes civil penalties of $1,000 per violation, third-degree felony charges for knowingly making false statements to the department, and deposits penalty proceeds into the Legal Affairs Revolving Trust Fund for enforcement