WASHINGTON—U.S. Representatives Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) and Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.) introduced the HOV Lane Exemption Reauthorization Act that would incentivize alternative fuel and electric vehicle (EV) use, alleviate roadway congestion, and protect the environment by reauthorizing the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane Exemption program under the Department of Transportation through 2031. This program allows states the option to grant electric vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles use of HOV lanes. Without an extension, the program is set to expire on September 30, 2025.
“Solo EV drivers in Arizona have been able to use the HOV lane for years. 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,” said Stanton. “I’m proud to work with my colleague Rep. DeSaulnier to extend this program.”
“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. 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,” said DeSaulnier.
The HOV Lane Exemption Reauthorization Act is supported by Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Center for Transportation and the Environment, Electric Drive Transportation Association, Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association, Renewable Fuels Association, Renewable Natural Gas Coalition, The Transport Project, Zero Emission Transportation Association.
Stanton and DeSaulnier are both members of the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure.
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Congressman Greg Stanton is the former mayor of Phoenix now proudly representing Arizona’s 4th District in Congress—encompassing all of Tempe, and parts of Phoenix, Mesa and Chandler. Stanton serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party. He serves in leadership of the New Democrat Coalition—a group of more than 100 moderate, solutions-oriented Democrats.