Representative Greg Stanton (D-AZ) has introduced legislation promoting the use of alternative fuel and electric vehicle (EV) usage while simultaneously clearing roadway congestion.
Specifically, Rep. Stanton's bill reauthorizes the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane Exemption, which allows drivers of qualified electric and alternative fuel vehicles to drive in high occupancy vehicle lanes regardless of the number of passengers.
States can then further implement labeling and enforcement of this program, which is set to expire at the end of September, but Rep. Stanton's bill reauthorizes the program through 2031.
"Solo EV drivers in Arizona have been able to use the HOV lane for years," the Arizona Congressman said in his press release, adding, "The lane exemption program doesn't just incentivize the transition to clean energy vehicles; it eases congestion for all drivers. But without a legislative fix, this common-sense policy will expire this year."
Representative Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), the bill's cosponsor, said, "The use of electric vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles should be incentivized and rewarded."
"These cars help reduce greenhouse gas emissions to address the threat of climate change, while also helping drivers save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in gas money annually," Rep. DeSaulnier continued, "I have seen firsthand how California's forward-looking policies on EVs, including its HOV Exemption program, has improved quality of life and helped to protect our planet, and I am proud to advocate for the extension of this program so California and states across the country can continue to support commuters, communities, and our planet."
In late July, Stanton reached across the aisle to work with Representative Brian Mast (R-FL) in introducing the Autonomous Vehicle Accessibility Act (AVAA), which provides legal protection for disabled passengers riding in autonomous vehicles, including those who are pulled over or in other situations, even if they are unable to hold a driver's license legally. Moreover, the Department of Transportation and the National Academies of Science are directed to study ways to improve public transportation infrastructure for people with disabilities to access and use autonomous vehicles.
