In Support of the Voluntary Adoption of Micromobility Battery Safety Standard
Adopted at the 93rd Annual Meeting in 2025
of micromobility devices, including electric bicycles, scooters, and other personal e-
mobility technologies, which serve as critical transportation tools for residents in urban
and suburban communities; and
WHEREAS, this increased usage has been accompanied by a growing number of reports
involving battery-related fires, malfunctions, and explosions, many of which have been
linked to non-certified lithium-ion battery systems that fail to meet basic safety
requirements; and
WHEREAS, between 2021 and 2022, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
(CPSC) received reports from 39 states documenting at least 208 incidents involving fires
or overheating related to e-bikes and personal e-mobility devices, resulting in 19 tragic
fatalities; and
WHEREAS, lithium-ion battery failures can produce excessive heat, toxic gases,
explosions, and fast-spreading fires, posing serious risks to consumers, emergency
responders, and nearby property; and
WHEREAS, consensus-based, nationally accredited safety standards developed by UL
Standards & Engagement (ULSE), such as UL 2849 for electric bicycles, UL 2272 for
personal e-mobility devices, and UL 2271 for traction batteries, have proven effective in
mitigating these risks through third-party certification by accredited bodies; and
WHEREAS, in 2022, the CPSC formally recommended that all manufacturers, importers,
distributors, and retailers ensure micromobility devices are tested, certified, and labeled in
accordance with these applicable UL safety standards to reduce the risk of injury and
death; and
WHEREAS, promoting voluntary compliance with these standards enhances consumer
confidence, creates a level playing field for responsible manufacturers, and encourages
innovation in the micromobility sector; and
WHEREAS, cities have an opportunity to promote public awareness, equip first responders
with specialized training, and support safe practices in the charging, storage, and disposal
of lithium-ion batteries to prevent fire-related hazards,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors supports the voluntary adoption of nationally recognized safety standards, including UL
2849, UL 2272, and UL 2271, for all micromobility devices and batteries sold, distributed,
leased, or offered for use in U.S. cities;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the USCM urges manufacturers and retailers to
voluntarily test, certify, and visibly label compliant products through accredited
certification bodies, ensuring consumers can identify devices that meet established safety
benchmarks;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the USCM encourages cities to pursue public education
campaigns, equip first responders with training on lithium-ion battery hazards, and
develop local guidelines that promote best practices, voluntary compliance, and
enforcement measures against the sale of uncertified or unsafe devices; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors reaffirms its
commitment to advancing safe, sustainable micromobility options that protect public
safety, reduce environmental impact, and expand equitable access to modern
transportation solutions.