NE LB309

Establishes a producer-funded battery stewardship program requiring manufacturers of portable batteries (≤11 lbs/300 watt-hours for rechargeable) and medium format batteries (11-25 lbs or 300-2,000 watt-hours) to join an approved collection and recycling organization by January 1, 2028

Requires battery stewardship organizations to submit plans to the Department of Environment and Energy by January 1, 2027, with $100,000 annual fees, and meet recycling efficiency targets of at least 60% for rechargeable and 70% for non-rechargeable batteries

Mandates statewide collection infrastructure including one permanent site within 15 miles of 95% of residents for portable batteries, and at least 10 permanent sites plus triennial county collection events for medium format batteries

Prohibits disposal of covered batteries in landfills, incinerators, or regular recycling streams beginning January 1, 2028, with civil penalties of $10,000 per violation and Class IV felony charges for false statements to the department

Excludes motor vehicle batteries, medical device batteries, batteries with free liquid electrolytes, and certain electronics (computers, TVs, gaming consoles) from coverage under the act