Creation Covenant Alliance

Vermont Introduces New Fee to Fund Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

Vermont's new $89 EV fee, aimed at funding more charging stations, illustrates the state's balanced approach to EV policies.

Vermont GOP Gov. Phil Scott signed a transportation bill this month, introducing an $89 annual fee on registered EVs. The revenue from this fee will help finance new charging stations at workplaces and multifamily apartment buildings.

Many states, including Vermont, are seeking alternative methods to fund road maintenance as gas tax revenues decrease. National politics also play a part, with figures like former President Donald Trump framing new fuel-efficiency rules as an EV mandate, raising questions on how to pay for infrastructure.

Incentives and Disincentives

Under the Inflation Reduction Act, the federal government offers a $7,500 tax credit for EV buyers meeting certain income requirements. At least 19 states offer additional incentives, according to the Tax Foundation. About half of the states impose fees on EVs, with a few, including Vermont, having both incentives and fees.

States like Vermont lead in EV adoption. Vermont utility companies have offered energy-efficiency incentives, including rebates for EV purchases, for nearly a decade. In California, zero-emission vehicles accounted for over a quarter of all sales last year.

The debate in Vermont about adopting an EV fee was unique. Some critics argued that EV owners don’t pay their fair share of road maintenance. Many EV owners agreed and even supported the idea of a fee. State Sen. Andrew Perchlik, the Democratic chair of the Vermont Senate Transportation Committee, says this fee will help fund infrastructure support.

Mixed Politics

This year’s proposal had bipartisan support, though some Progressive Party legislators opposed it, preferring to wait until EVs comprised 15 percent of Vermont auto sales. The $89 annual fee, a compromise, will fund non-public EV chargers, addressing concerns about disincentivizing EV ownership and achieving state climate goals.

Ben Edgerly Walsh, climate director for the Vermont Public Interest Research Group, indicates that the new fee won’t substantially alter the growing EV market in Vermont. Gov. Scott, a supporter of EVs and opponent of taxes, signed the bill despite the new fee.

In rural Vermont, transportation costs can consume up to a third of low-income families’ income. Edgerly Walsh notes that helping these families switch to EVs offers significant financial benefits.

Waiting for Gas Tax Replacement

Vermont and other states face the challenge of funding road maintenance as gas tax revenues decline due to increased EV adoption. Sen. Richard McCormack, a Democrat, and longtime environmental advocate, likens the gas tax to a “sin tax,” highlighting the difficulty of relying on a tax from an activity the state aims to reduce.

Vermont is considering policies to charge road users for vehicle miles traveled (VMT) as a potential gas tax replacement. Implementing such a policy involves decisions about flat fees, mileage tracking, and handling out-of-state drivers. Current estimates suggest a VMT system in Vermont wouldn’t be in place until 2026, at which point the new EV fee would expire.

Sen. McCormack, retiring after 30 years in the Legislature, opposed the new EV fee, viewing it as a disincentive during a crucial period for climate action. However, legislating often requires compromise rather than achieving one’s ideal outcome.

Original Story at www.governing.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024