Ohio legislation would stop mandatory EV buys

As the push continues to transition to electric vehicles around Ohio and the country, state lawmakers want consumers to have a choice.

Senate passage and a signature from Gov. Mike DeWine are all that’s needed to stop the state from signing on to or taking steps to mandate emissions standards through emergency protocols established in the Clean Air Act of 1970.

“This legislation will prevent undue burdens on our residents, particularly those in low-income communities who may struggle with the higher costs of transitioning to electric vehicles,” said Rep. Brett Hillyer, R-Uhrichsville. “Ohio is not California and, therefore, should not be treated as such.”

The bill, which recently passed the House, would give Ohioans a choice in the type of automobile, lawn equipment or other motorized equipment they want.