Answer: Spent lead acid batteries (SLABs) are considered hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) in the United States. However, they are exempt from the regulations that apply to other hazardous waste if they are recycled properly.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), when spent lead acid batteries are recycled, they are considered a "universal waste" under RCRA. Universal wastes are certain types of hazardous waste that are considered less hazardous than other hazardous wastes and are subject to less stringent regulations. The regulations for universal waste are intended to encourage the collection and proper recycling or disposal of these materials.
To be considered for this exemption, the spent lead-acid batteries must be managed in accordance with the regulations for universal waste, which include proper labeling, storage, and transportation, as well as the requirement that the batteries be sent to a facility that is authorized to manage universal waste.
It is important to note that individual states may have different regulations regarding management and disposal of spent lead-acid batteries, so it is best to check with your state's environmental agency for specific information.