The bill amends Chapter 42-11.3 of the General Laws, which pertains to motor vehicles owned by governmental bodies, by updating definitions and introducing new requirements for vehicle replacement. It adds definitions for "zero-emission vehicle," which is a vehicle that produces no emissions from its onboard source of power, and "alternative-fueled vehicle," which refers to vehicles that may use a combination of a small combustion engine, electric motors, and battery packs, or are powered by hydrogen fuel cells. The bill also includes a new section that mandates governmental bodies to replace all gasoline-powered vehicles with zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) when they reach the end of their service life. For any new fleet vehicles leased or purchased, the governmental body is required to procure ZEVs.

The bill allows for waivers if a gasoline-powered vehicle cannot be replaced with a ZEV due to limited supply or inadequate replacement options. In such cases, the governmental body may lease or purchase an alternative-fueled vehicle until a ZEV becomes available. However, no governmental body is permitted more than three waivers in a calendar year unless they can prove that no ZEVs are available for adequate replacement. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
7859: 42-11.3-1