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Enhanced Safety Standards for Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Battery Fires.

This bill mandates new safety standards for all electric and hybrid vehicles sold in the US, focusing on battery fire mitigation and passenger safety. The changes require technology to suppress thermal runaway, delay fire penetration into the cabin, and ensure mechanical door releases are available if the electrical system fails. This legislation aims to increase occupant safety and improve first responder effectiveness during emergencies.
Key points
Requires new EVs and hybrid vehicles to include technology allowing first responders immediate access to the battery for timely fire extinguishment.
Mandates clearly marked interior and exterior mechanical door releases to ensure safe exit during electrical system failures.
Requires safeguards to delay battery fire from breaching the passenger compartment, allowing time for escape or rescue.
Orders a study on the health impacts of EV battery fires on first responders and the creation of standardized training guidance for firefighters.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_6948
Sponsor: Rep. Latimer, George [D-NY-16]
Process start date: 2026-01-06
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

To amend title 49, United States Code, to require each new electric and hybrid vehicle to be equipped with technology that allows the timely extinguishment of an electric vehicle battery fire, and for other purposes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_6948.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2026-01-06.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Requires new EVs and hybrid vehicles to include technology allowing first responders immediate access to the battery for timely fire extinguishment.
  • Mandates clearly marked interior and exterior mechanical door releases to ensure safe exit during electrical system failures.
  • Requires safeguards to delay battery fire from breaching the passenger compartment, allowing time for escape or rescue.
  • Orders a study on the health impacts of EV battery fires on first responders and the creation of standardized training guidance for firefighters.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Latimer, George [D-NY-16].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-24.

CATEGORIES

Transport Security Health