New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB447

Introduced
12/30/21  
Refer
12/30/21  
Report Pass
2/10/22  
Report Pass
3/23/22  
Engrossed
4/1/22  

Caption

Establishing the electric vehicle and infrastructure fund.

Impact

The creation of the Electric Vehicle and Infrastructure Fund signifies a notable shift in state policy towards supporting electric vehicle adoption and related infrastructure developments. By establishing this fund, the state hopes to accelerate the transition to cleaner transportation solutions and enhance the availability of EV charging stations. This, in turn, could foster a more favorable environment for electric vehicle manufacturers and facilitate economic growth in sectors related to clean energy and technology. However, the bill's funding mechanisms rely heavily on future federal appropriations and grants, making the fiscal impact uncertain at the onset.

Summary

SB447 establishes the Electric Vehicle and Infrastructure Fund, aiming to enhance and facilitate the construction of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure within New Hampshire. The bill creates a dedicated fund that is distinct from other state funds, allowing for the appropriation of general and federal funds, as well as donations and grants, specifically designated for the development of electric vehicle infrastructure on transportation corridors and private commercial properties throughout the state. This initiative is part of a broader effort to advance electric vehicle use, thereby promoting environmental sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Contention

While the bill has received support for its intentions to promote electric vehicles and infrastructure, there may be points of contention regarding the adequacy of funding and the reliance on external sources for sustaining the Electric Vehicle and Infrastructure Fund. Critics might argue that without upfront state appropriations or guaranteed funding streams, the implementation and expansion of this infrastructure could face significant challenges. Additionally, the potential for varying interpretations of the bill’s requirements and the selection process for contracts with private entities could provoke debates among stakeholders involving transportation, environmental, and energy sectors.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB417

Establishing an electric school bus pilot program.

NH SB191

Relative to road toll registration surcharges for electric vehicles.

NH SB191

Relative to road toll registration surcharges for electric vehicles.

NH HB1523

Establishing a New Hampshire child care fund.

NH HB1675

Establishing a surcharge collected through E-Z Pass for electric vehicles as an alternative road toll.

NH SB451

Establishing a New Hampshire innovation program in the department of business and economic affairs and making an annual appropriation therefor.

NH HB1524

Establishing a national service alumni attraction and retention fund.

NH SB274

Establishing a 4-year pilot program to improve rail trails in New Hampshire, including the establishment of 2 funds, the rail trails program fund and the emergency trail repair fund, and making appropriations therefor.

NH HB606

Requiring construction of state buildings or state-funded projects to contain electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

NH SB379

Establishing the solid waste management fund and grant program.

Similar Bills

NH SB167

Relative to green hydrogen energy and infrastructure.

NH SB417

Establishing an electric school bus pilot program.

NH SB52

Relative to the regulation and operation of electric vehicle charging stations.

NH SB366

Relative to restricting the purchase of real property on or around military installations.

NH SB424

Relative to renewable energy and natural gas.

NH HB1506

Establishing a revolving clean energy accelerator fund in the department of energy.

NH HB721

Relative to establishing gold and silver as legal tender.

NH HB144

Restoring firearm ownership rights to ex-felons.