As previously reported, VACo supports HB 107 (Sullivan) as this bill would create the Electric Vehicle Rural Infrastructure Program and Fund. The Program and Fund would make available up to $25 million each fiscal year and assist developers by offsetting up to 70 percent of the non-utility cost of electric vehicle charging stations. According to the provisions outlined in the bills, rural Virginia localities would benefit from the passage of this bill.
VACo testified in support of the bill during its initial hearing in the House Natural Resources Subcommittee, and it reported out favorably by a vote of 8-2. The bill was referred to House Appropriations where it is not yet docketed.
SB 457 (Marsden) is similar legislation that would create the Driving Decarbonization Program and Fund. The bill provides that a private developer is eligible to receive grants of 70 percent of such non-utility costs for electric vehicle charging stations installed in a historically poor community or a rural community, and 50 percent of such non-utility costs for electric vehicle charging stations installed in any other area of the Commonwealth. The bill caps the total amount of grants awarded yearly at $20 million.
VACo supports both HB 107 and SB 457 and is excited to testify in favor of the bills as they are heard throughout the legislative process. VACo thanks Delegate Sullivan and Senator Marsden for bringing this important legislation forward.
VACo Contact: James Hutzler