Relative to collecting road tolls on the output of separately metered electric vehicle chargers.
Impact
The bill's impact on state laws is significant as it formalizes the inclusion of electric vehicle charging within the state's tax system. This newer road toll may influence drivers' preferences for charging options and necessitate updates to existing infrastructure to track and manage the toll effectively. The Department of Safety acknowledges that with a relatively small number of EVs currently registered in the state, it remains uncertain whether the revenue generated will meet projections or exceed $1 million annually, particularly given that many EV owners charge their vehicles at home where toll collection may be more difficult.
Summary
House Bill 456-FN seeks to impose a road toll on the output of electricity dispensed by separately metered electric vehicle (EV) chargers, establishing a system that equates the toll to the motor fuel equivalent gallon. This legislative move targets the growing number of EVs, aiming to create a new revenue stream for state infrastructure. The bill intends to amend existing laws under RSA 260 and introduce specific provisions regarding the collection and licensing of the electricity road toll. The effective date for the legislation is set for July 1, 2023.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 456 include concerns over the fairness of applying a road toll to electric vehicle users, potentially viewed as penalizing environmentally conscious decisions to transition from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. There are discussions regarding how this toll might affect EV adoption rates and whether it could undermine localized efforts to promote cleaner transportation options. The anticipated revenue from this toll could also ignite debate over its adequate allocation to infrastructure projects, especially considering that the majority of charging occurs at home, limiting potential state revenue influx from commercial charging stations.
Requires electric public utilities to submit new tariffs for commercial customers for BPU approval; regulates non-volumetric electricity fees charged to operators of fast charging electric vehicle chargers.