New state law bans rechargeable batteries from going into the trash

Posted: 12.05.2011 at 3:27 AM

It is now illegal to thrown out rechargeable batteries in New York State. You can return them to a store that sells rechargeables batteries, or drop them off at an OCRRA bin. / File Photo

ALBANY (AP) -- It's now illegal to toss rechargeable batteries in the trash in New York state.

Under a law signed into law by the governor in December 2010, consumers now have to take their worn-out rechargeable batteries to be recycled. And stores that sell them have to accept rechargeables for recycling.

Retailers had to start accepting batteries for recycling back in June, but the consumer ban on disposal has just now taken effect.

The law covers batteries for laptops, cameras, cell phones, and rechargeable alkaline batteries.

People caught tossing rechargeables in the garbage face fines of $50 for the first offense and $100 for the second.

Manufacturers have to collect the batteries and recycle them to keep toxic chemicals out of landfills.