Stewardship program for batteries established, mercury in batteries prohibited, lead acid batteries and rechargeable consumer products provisions modified, rulemaking authorized, and money appropriated.

This bill establishes a new stewardship program for covered batteries in Minnesota and prohibits the use of mercury in batteries, affecting manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of battery products. It creates clear definitions for terms like "covered battery," "brand," and "distribute" to clarify which products and businesses fall under the program's requirements. The legislation authorizes the state to create rules for battery collection and recycling, while also modifying existing provisions related to lead acid batteries and rechargeable consumer products. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds to support the implementation of these environmental protections and sets specific effective dates for various provisions.