Connecticut Senate Bill SB00481

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/18
• Refer: 3/9/18

Caption

An Act Concerning The Unauthorized Use Of Electric Vehicle Parking Spaces.

Impact

This legislation is set to impact state laws by establishing specific penalties for parking violations at EV charging stations. Under the proposed regulation, individuals parking in designated EV spaces without the appropriate vehicle will face fines—a $150 penalty for the first violation and $250 for subsequent infractions. This change is intended to promote the responsible use of electric vehicle resources, ensuring that charging stations remain available for those who need them.

Summary

SB00481, titled 'An Act Concerning The Unauthorized Use Of Electric Vehicle Parking Spaces', aims to regulate the use of public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in the state. The bill prohibits unauthorized parking in spaces designated for electric vehicles, specifically targeting those who park there without operating a plug-in hybrid or battery electric vehicle. To enhance accessibility and efficiency, public charging stations must provide multiple payment options and disclose essential details about their facilities to a federal database.

Contention

Notably, some concerns may arise surrounding the enforcement of the bill. Stakeholders could argue about the fairness and practicality of imposing fines, particularly regarding who qualifies as receiving a 'fair access' to public charging infrastructure. While the bill supports the growth of electric vehicle usage, critics may question the potential impact on individuals who may inadvertently park in these spaces due to various circumstances. Balancing the promotion of electric vehicle use with equitable enforcement mechanisms will likely be a topic of contention in future discussions.