Connecticut Senate Bill SB00252

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/17
• Refer: 1/18/17

Caption

An Act Authorizing The Registration Of Neighborhood Electric Vehicles And Establishment Of Equipment And Operation Standards For Such Vehicles.

Impact

If enacted, SB00252 would allow NEVs to operate on highways with posted speed limits of thirty miles per hour or less. This legislative change is expected to provide a regulatory framework that facilitates the use of environmentally friendly transportation options at the local level. By enabling the legal operation of these vehicles, the bill could promote shifts towards more sustainable transit solutions, reducing reliance on traditional gasoline-powered cars. It can also enhance mobility for residents especially in neighborhoods designed with low-speed limits.

Summary

SB00252, introduced by Senator Formica, aims to authorize the registration of neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) in Connecticut. The bill proposes to amend existing statutes to not only enable the registration of these electric vehicles but also to establish specific equipment and operation standards governing their use. NEVs are typically defined as low-speed vehicles with certain design and performance characteristics, primarily intended for short-distance travel within residential areas or urban settings.

Contention

While the bill seems straightforward in its intentions, discussions around SB00252 may raise concerns regarding the safety implications of allowing NEVs on public roads. Opponents might argue that the integration of these vehicles into existing transportation frameworks could pose risks, especially in areas with higher vehicular traffic. Additionally, questions about the adequacy of the proposed equipment standards and regulatory oversight by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) could lead to heated debates among stakeholders, including urban planners, lawmakers, and safety advocates.