WI AB713

Battery manufacturers must designate stewardship organizations to operate free collection and recycling programs for portable batteries (≤11 lbs/300 watt-hours rechargeable, ≤4.4 lbs primary) and medium format batteries (up to 25 lbs/2,000 watt-hours) starting January 1, 2027

Stewardship plans require DNR approval and must include performance goals with minimum recycling efficiency rates of 60% for rechargeable and 70% for primary batteries, plus at least one collection site within 15 miles of 95% of state residents by December 31, 2028

Beginning January 1, 2028, landfill disposal and incineration of covered batteries is prohibited; batteries must be delivered to approved collection sites or events

Organizations must reimburse local governments for collection site costs, provide free collection containers, conduct safety training, and submit annual audits and reports to DNR

Intentional and substantial violations carry civil forfeitures up to $7,000 per violation; excludes alkaline batteries, lead acid batteries, liquid electrolyte batteries, and batteries in medical devices not sold at retail