The bill H.426, known as the "Curts Act," aims to create a unified and resilient transportation system in Vermont by appropriating funds for various vehicle incentive programs, including the MileageSmart Program, the Incentive Program for New Plug-In Electric Vehicles, the Replace Your Ride Program, and the eBike Incentive Program. It allocates $3 million for the MileageSmart Program, $6 million for the Incentive Program for New Plug-In Electric Vehicles, and $150,000 for the eBike Incentive Program in fiscal year 2026. Additionally, the bill imposes a retail delivery fee of $0.30 on taxable deliveries to support town highway aid and emphasizes the reduction of vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions in transportation project evaluations. The Agency of Transportation is directed to incorporate complete streets principles in project planning and provide technical assistance to municipalities.

The legislation also introduces amendments to existing laws, including the repeal of a previous stipulation regarding local speed limit ordinances and new regulations for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) installation in rental properties. It mandates that public EVSE must accept credit card payments and establishes penalties for associations that violate EVSE installation regulations. The bill allocates funding for initiatives such as the Municipal Highway and Stormwater Mitigation Program and requires a study on school-related transportation costs. Overall, the Curts Act aims to enhance transportation efficiency, promote electric vehicle use, and support community resilience in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 19-306, 19-10b, 19-10c, 19-10i, 19-309a, 19-309b, 23-1007, 24-4345a, 23-1139