Feds eye lithium batteries in e-scooters to prevent explosive commutes
Published Date: 10/5/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is proposing new safety rules for lithium-ion batteries in micromobility products like e-scooters and e-bikes to keep riders safer. If you make or sell these products, you can share your thoughts in a virtual meeting on October 21, 2026. This is your chance to help shape rules that could affect product designs and costs soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
New Battery Safety Standard for Micromobility
If you make or sell micromobility products (for example, e-scooters or e-bikes), the CPSC proposed a safety standard requiring electrical systems that use lithium‑ion batteries to comply with applicable voluntary standards, with modifications. The NPRM (published June 24, 2026) aims to address hazards such as thermal runaway that can cause fires, explosions, burns, and smoke inhalation.
Opportunity to Present Oral Comments
If you want to comment on the proposed battery rule, you can make an oral presentation at a free virtual webinar starting at 10 a.m. Eastern time on October 21, 2026. You must request to present and submit the written text of your oral presentation by 5 p.m. Eastern time on October 15, 2026; each oral presentation is limited to 5 minutes.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12749, Safety Standard for Lithium-Ion Batteries Used in Micromobility Products and Electrical Systems of Micromobility Products Containing Such Batteries
The Consumer Product Safety Commission wants to make lithium-ion batteries in micromobility products (like e-scooters and e-bikes) safer to prevent fires and injuries. They’re proposing new rules that require these batteries to meet tougher safety standards and, for kids’ products, to pass special third-party testing. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until August 24, 2026, to speak up—these changes could mean safer rides and possibly some new costs for makers.
2026-20347, Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of Collection; Safety Standard for Button Cell or Coin Batteries and Consumer Products Containing Such Batteries
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2026-19750, Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of Collection; Comment Request; Generic Clearance for the Collection of Qualitative Feedback on Agency Service Delivery
The Consumer Product Safety Commission wants to keep collecting feedback on how well they serve the public and is asking for your thoughts on extending this effort. This helps them improve their services without adding extra paperwork. If you have ideas or concerns, send them in by November 27, 2026!
2026-19748, Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of Collection; Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles, 16 CFR Part 1610; Standard for the Flammability of Vinyl Plastic Film, 16 CFR Part 1611
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is extending its approval to collect info from clothing and vinyl plastic film makers to keep fire safety standards strong. This means manufacturers and importers must keep following the rules to make sure their products aren’t flammable. Comments on this extension are open until October 28, 2026, but no changes or extra costs are expected.
2026-19579, Substantial Product Hazard List: Amendments to Requirements for Window Covering Cords
The Consumer Product Safety Commission wants to make certain window covering cords a big safety concern because they can cause strangulation. This affects makers and sellers of custom and stock window coverings with long or looped cords, requiring new warnings and safer designs. Comments on these changes are open until November 23, 2026, so businesses should get ready to update their products and stay safe!
2026-18103, Notice of Availability and Request for Comment: Revision to the Voluntary Standard for Products Containing Button Cell or Coin Batteries
The Consumer Product Safety Commission wants your thoughts on a new update to safety rules for products with button cell or coin batteries—those tiny power packs in toys, watches, and gadgets. This update could make these products safer, and companies making or selling them should pay attention. You’ve got until September 17, 2026, to share your comments, so don’t miss out on shaping safer battery products!
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