Maine has decided not to follow in the footsteps of California and 12 other states in phasing out gas-powered cars in favor of electric vehicles (EVs). The Maine Board of Environmental Protection rejected a proposal to adopt a rule that would have mandated Mainers to drive zero-emission vehicles by 2025. The rule would have also required new car sales in Maine to be at least 43% EVs within three years.
The proposed rule was based on clean car regulations adopted by the California Air Resources Board in 2022. However, concerns about the financial and economic impact of forcing EVs on Mainers, who often travel long distances for their daily jobs with limited charging infrastructure, led to the rejection of the rule. Chairman Susan Lessard also highlighted the high number of used cars on Maine’s roads, indicating that many residents cannot afford the average $52,000 price tag of an electric vehicle.
Some members of the environmental board argued against the rule due to the negative impact of tailpipe smog on the environment. However, the majority felt that Mainers should not be forced to move towards zero-emission vehicles without appropriate infrastructure.
This decision comes on the same day that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new emission standards to reduce the use of gas-powered vehicles. It contrasts with federal legislation that aims to block the EPA from implementing emission standards aligned with California’s regulations. Maine Congressman Jared Golden supported this legislation, emphasizing the impracticality of mandating heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles for industries lacking the necessary electrical infrastructure.
The Maine Policy Institute estimates that 80% of Maine residents oppose being forced to switch to electric cars. Many residents cited concerns about the limited availability of charging stations, the challenging northern climate, and reports of electric cars failing in cold temperatures. Additionally, Maine’s large elderly population and low median household income make it difficult for many residents to afford new vehicles.
The Maine Institute Policy commended the committee for considering the wishes and needs of Maine residents. The institute’s CEO, Matthew Gagnon, stated that Mainers would willingly choose EVs if the market conditions and infrastructure were favorable, without government coercion.
Maine joins several other states, including Mississippi and Connecticut, in rejecting the ZEV initiative. However, Vermont, New York, Washington, Oregon, Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island, and Maryland have adopted the California standard.
Overall, Maine’s decision reflects the unique challenges faced by a rural state with limited infrastructure and financial constraints. While concerns about emissions and environmental impact remain important, Maine’s rejection of the ZEV mandate acknowledges the need for practicality and affordability in transitioning to electric vehicles.
. Learn about the concerns surrounding infrastructure and affordability, as well as the impact on the environment. Find out how this decision contrasts with federal legislation and the perspectives of Maine residents. Explore the unique challenges faced by rural states and the importance of practicality and affordability in transitioning to EVs.){kind=link}