Requires that any government owned vehicle that is to be replaced, be replaced with a zero-emission vehicle, defined as a vehicle which produces no emissions from the on-board source of power.
Impact
The implementation of S2595 is expected to significantly impact state laws concerning government-operated vehicles. It establishes a clear framework for transitioning away from gasoline-powered vehicles, aligning state transportation policies with broader environmental goals. The bill, taking effect on January 1, 2025, reflects an increasing commitment to reducing emissions within the public sector, thus potentially serving as a model for similar initiatives in other states.
Summary
Bill S2595 mandates that any gasoline-powered vehicle owned by a government body must be replaced by a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) when it reaches the end of its service life. This bill aims to promote sustainability by ensuring that public government fleets transition to cleaner, environmentally friendly alternatives. Additionally, for any new fleet vehicles that are leased or purchased, the government is also required to procure zero-emission vehicles.
Contention
One notable aspect of the bill is the provision for waivers. If a government body is unable to replace a gasoline-powered vehicle with a zero-emission vehicle due to supply limitations, they may apply for waivers to procure alternative-fueled vehicles temporarily. However, these waivers are limited to three per calendar year unless the governmental body can demonstrate the unavailability of zero-emission vehicles. This limitation aims to encourage compliance while acknowledging operational constraints faced by various government entities.