CT Senate GOP: “We must continue to stay vigilant” in Opposing EV Mandate
November 13, 2024Lamont says he’s unlikely to pursue EV mandates in CT
CT Post
Donald Trump’s reelection is likely to create major delays – and possibly obstacles – in the nation’s effort to reduce greenhouse gases through the increased use of electric vehicles, Gov. Ned Lamont said on Tuesday.
Lamont said the controversial federal emissions standards, which the Democratic majorities in the General Assembly abandoned earlier this year because of the required accelerated adoption schedule, are likely to be shelved for the time being. Asked whether he would try to revive the state’s adoption of the California standards when the General Assembly convenes in January, Lamont said no.
“There will be a discussion,” Lamont said. “We were following the federal standards and I think the federal standards are no more.” In March, state lawmakers gave up on making a law to require EV plug-ins by 2035.
It ended months of legislative bickering over the issue, the opposition to which was seized by minority Republicans in an election year.
Senate Republicans responded that the withdrawal of the EV requirements was a welcome development.
“This is a victory for Connecticut taxpayers. Connecticut Republicans – and thousands of taxpayers – have spoken out against the EV mandate,” the Senate Republicans said in a mid-afternoon statement.
“Republicans welcome the governor’s announcement, but we must continue to stay vigilant. The EV mandate idea will no doubt be brought up again by majority Democrats in the state legislature.”
