The Oregon House on Thursday passed a bill intended to make buying an electric vehicle more affordable and for utility companies to increase supporting infrastructure.
THE ISSUE: State leaders want to increase the number of electric vehicles on the road because of their environmental benefits.
THE BILL: House Bill 2165
WHAT IT DOES: It removes the sunset on the Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate program that provides an incentive to buy an electric car. It also doubles the Charge Ahead rebate program to $5,000.
Additionally, the bill makes regulatory changes that are intended to help electric companies to boost their electric vehicle infrastructure.
WHY IT WAS PROPOSED: Proponents of the bill say there is demand for electric vehicles, and the changes will make it easier for consumers to ditch gas-powered cars.
HOW THE MARION/POLK DELEGATION VOTED:
State Rep. Teresa Alonso León, D-Woodburn: Excused
State Rep. Brian Clem, D-Salem: Yes
State Rep. Paul Evans, D-Monmouth: Yes
State Rep. Rick Lewis, R-Silverton: No
State Rep. Raquel Moore-Green, R-Salem: No
State Rep. Mike Nearman, R-Independence: Excused
Sate Rep. Bill Post, R-Keizer: No
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT: It heads to the Senate for consideration.
-Jake Thomas
