The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection introduced new rules regulating lithium-ion batteries across the city.

The new rules are geared toward retailers that sell, lease or rent battery-powered mobility devices such as e-bikes - and the lithium-ion batteries need to be certified and accredited by the Underwriters Laboratories. The UL is a company that supports the safe production of products.

The rule also comes as the city has cracked down on illegal lithium-ion batteries and their unsafe operation, particularly with the number of fires associated with lithium-ion batteries.

The DCWP stated lithium-ion batteries have caused 170 fires, and killed 14 people across the city this year. The FDNY reported an increasing number of fires and injuries over the last several years.

There is no information on penalties or potential fines for violating the new rules as of yet.