Analyst Brief September 14, 2026

H.R. 9615 — BRACE Act

Current Status

Reported by Committee

Executive Summary

H.R. 9615, the BRACE Act, directs the EPA to establish tailored 'universal waste' regulations for lithium-ion batteries to streamline their recycling and the recovery of critical minerals. Currently, the regulatory framework for end-of-life lithium-ion batteries is ambiguous, often subjecting them to stringent hazardous waste rules (RCRA) that hinder efficient recycling and storage. By setting interim storage requirements and mandating a final rule within 18 months, the bill aims to boost domestic critical mineral supply chains, reduce reliance on foreign adversaries, and provide regulatory certainty to the recycling industry while maintaining environmental safeguards.

Bill Data

Primary Sponsor

Rep. Miller-Meeks (R-IA)

Bill Number

H.R. 9615

Session

119th

Co-Sponsors

None
View on Congress.gov ↗

Arguments For

  • Supply Chain Security: Streamlining recycling regulations boosts domestic recovery of critical minerals (like lithium and cobalt), reducing reliance on foreign adversaries like China for EV and grid storage components.
  • Regulatory Certainty: Moving lithium-ion batteries explicitly into the 'universal waste' category provides clear, less burdensome rules for recyclers compared to full hazardous waste (RCRA) regulations, encouraging industry investment and economic growth.

Likely Supporters

Battery recyclers (e.g., Redwood Materials, Li-Cycle)Automotive manufacturersNational Waste & Recycling Association

Arguments Against

  • Environmental and Safety Risks: Relaxing storage and handling requirements to universal waste standards could increase the risk of severe battery fires or toxic exposure if facilities are not adequately prepared for the unique hazards of lithium-ion thermal runaway.
  • Implementation Timeline: Forcing the EPA to issue a complex, tailored rule within 18 months may lead to rushed regulations that fail to adequately address the unique fire risks and chemical complexities of lithium-ion batteries.

Likely Opponents

Environmental justice organizationsLocal community groups near proposed recycling facilities (NIMBY concerns over battery fires)

📋 Key Provisions

  • Mandates the EPA Administrator to issue a rule managing lithium-ion batteries as 'universal waste' within 18 months of enactment.
  • Establishes interim regulatory requirements for destination facilities storing lithium-ion batteries prior to recycling, treating them under specific large quantity handler universal waste standards.
  • Directs the EPA to consider regulatory changes that support critical mineral recovery and address safety gaps in existing protections.
  • Updates technical references in the Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act to reflect current Code of Federal Regulations citations.
search Verification Guide BETA expand_more

Don't trust AI? Don't worry, neither do I. Verify the claims yourself.

Claim Analysis Page 4, Line 22

Requires the EPA to issue a universal waste rule for lithium-ion batteries within 18 months.

Verify Text

"Not later than 18 months"

Claim Analysis Page 4, Line 7

Sets interim requirements for destination facilities storing batteries prior to recycling.

Verify Text

"destination facility that stores lithium-ion batteries"

Claim Analysis Page 6, Line 9

Updates the Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act CFR reference.

Verify Text

"part 273 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations"