Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB846

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/22/23
• Refer: 12/22/23
• Report Pass: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/11/24
• Report Pass: 2/19/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Exemptions from public utility regulation regarding electric vehicle charging stations, installation and operation of electric vehicle charging stations by state agencies or local governmental units, and imposing an excise tax on electric vehicle charging. (FE)

Impact

AB846 introduces significant changes to existing laws governing electric vehicle charging. It imposes restrictions on local government units regarding their ability to own or operate charging stations unless the charging services are provided free of charge or the station only serves the vehicles owned by the local government. This aspect is aimed at promoting private enterprise while raising questions about local governance and control. Furthermore, municipal utilities are permitted to charge fees for the use of publicly available charging stations if they comply with stated conditions that include no tax revenue being used for subsidization.

Summary

Assembly Bill 846 focuses on the regulations surrounding electric vehicle charging stations in Wisconsin. The bill seeks to exempt certain providers from being classified as public utilities, provided that the electricity supplied comes exclusively from the utility or cooperative serving the charging stations. This legislative effort is intended to encourage the development and accessibility of electric vehicle infrastructure without cumbersome regulatory oversight, thereby facilitating the growth of electric vehicle usage in the state.

Contention

Critics of AB846 raise concerns regarding the restrictions it places on local governments, arguing that these limitations could hinder local initiatives aimed at expanding electric vehicle infrastructure in their communities. Additionally, the imposition of a new excise tax on electricity used for charging electric vehicles—levied at 3 cents per kilowatt-hour—has sparked discussion about the potential economic impact on consumers and businesses invested in green technologies. Advocates for the bill defend it as a necessary step to streamline regulations and promote electric vehicle adoption, which is crucial for achieving environmental goals.