In response to a major fire in February 2025, at the EMR scrapyard in Camden, Assemblyman William F. Moen Jr. introduced a package of bills intended to reduce fire risk and improve environmental oversight at scrap metal facilities. On May 8, 2025, the Assembly Environment, Natural Resources and Solid Waste Committee advanced two of the bills: A5533 and A5535.

Assembly Bill A5533 would require sellers of scrap metal to disclose in writing whether the material contains a propulsion battery, such as lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride batteries commonly found in electric and hybrid vehicles. The bill defines “propulsion battery” using the definition in the Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Battery Management Act (N.J.S.A. 13:1E-99.81b).

If a seller states that no battery is present, scrap metal businesses must inspect the material to confirm. Businesses would also be required to keep written records of all disclosures and inspections for a minimum of five years.

The second bill, A5535, targets automotive shredder residue – the nonrecyclable byproduct generated when vehicles and metal goods are shredded for recycling. A5535 would prohibit facilities from storing or processing automotive shredder residue without a permit from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).

The NJDEP would be tasked with setting limits on the volume, height, and duration of ASR storage, especially near homes and critical infrastructure. The bill also amends the Solid Waste Management Act (N.J.S.A. 13:1E-1) to include a definition of hazardous waste, signaling stronger regulation of ASR moving forward.

Both bills passed out of committee with unanimous support (5–0), marking an early but important step toward adoption. If enacted, the laws would impose new compliance obligations on scrap metal facilities, particularly around battery handling and recordkeeping.

The EMR scrapyard fire, which drew significant public and media attention, appears to have accelerated legislative focus on fire prevention and hazardous waste regulation. These measures reflect New Jersey’s broader commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship.

Stakeholders – especially scrap metal businesses – should monitor these bills closely and consider providing feedback during upcoming hearings. The legislative process may lead to revisions, but the direction is clear: greater scrutiny of scrap metal operations and stronger safeguards for surrounding communities.