Vermont Governor Phil Scott has issued an executive order halting the state’s compliance with a rule that would have required 35% of vehicles delivered to car dealers to be zero-emission starting in 2026. The decision comes as Vermont and 16 other states face challenges in developing sufficient charging infrastructure to support widespread electric vehicle adoption.
The California Rule and Vermont’s Response
In 2022, Vermont joined California and other states in adopting a rule aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, which is the largest contributor to carbon pollution in the state. However, Governor Scott cited the lack of charging infrastructure and technological limitations in heavy-duty vehicles as major obstacles to implementing the rule.
“I continue to believe we should be incentivizing Vermonters to transition to cleaner energy options like electric vehicles,” Scott said in a written statement. “However, we have to be realistic about a pace that’s achievable. It’s clear we don’t have anywhere near enough charging infrastructure, and insufficient technological advances in heavy-duty vehicles, to meet current goals.”
Reaction from Climate Advocates and Auto Dealers
Climate advocates were critical of the governor’s decision, with Ben Walsh of the Vermont Public Interest Research Group calling it a “major setback” for the state’s climate goals. “Without an assurance that manufacturers are actually going to deliver electric vehicles to Vermont and Vermonters, there simply isn’t any way that we can get where we need to go on reducing climate pollution here in Vermont,” Walsh said.
In contrast, representatives from Vermont’s auto dealers welcomed the news, arguing that the mandate would have harmed local businesses by forcing manufacturers to limit vehicle shipments to the state. Matt Cota of the Vermont Vehicle and Automotive Distributors Association noted that demand for electric vehicles in Vermont remains relatively low, with about 14% of new car registrations being zero-emission vehicles last year.
Implications for Vermont’s Climate Goals
The decision to halt compliance with the California rule has significant implications for Vermont’s climate goals. The state’s transportation sector is responsible for the majority of its carbon emissions, and the electric vehicle mandate was seen as a key strategy for reducing these emissions. As Vermont moves forward, it will need to balance its climate ambitions with the practical realities of infrastructure development and consumer demand.
