New laws introduced by Sen. Tepler to reduce household utility costs and establish battery stewardship program take effect

Posted: July 29, 2026 | Senator Tepler

AUGUSTA — Today, new laws introduced by Sen. Denise Tepler, D-Topsham, went into effect after being passed by the Legislature earlier this year, including:

  • LD 474, “An Act to Establish a Stewardship Program for Primary and Rechargeable Batteries”
  • LD 2140, “Resolve, to Establish a Demand Response Program to Lower Electricity Bills and Improve Grid Reliability”

“I’m happy to see these pieces of legislation finally become law,” said Sen. Tepler. “I am hopeful that LD 474 and 2140 will bring down costs for Mainers when property taxes are due and when paying their monthly energy bills. I will continue to put forward legislation that helps alleviate expenses for the hardworking people of this state, protects our environment and preserves our heritage industries.”

As non-emergency legislation, LDs 474 and 2140 take effect today, July 29, 90 days after the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature adjourned. The Governor signed both bills into law.

This year, Sen. Tepler returned to Augusta to lower everyday costs, protect Maine’s future and defend Mainers’ rights and freedoms.

Sen. Tepler represents all of Sagadahoc County and the Town of Dresden. She is serving her first term in the Maine Senate.

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