US lawmakers push to extend carpool lane incentives to push EV adoption
US lawmakers Mark DeSaulnier (California) and Greg Stanton (Arizona) have introduced the HOV Lane Exemption Reauthorization Act, a federal measure designed to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles. The bill seeks to extend the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane Exemption programme through 2031, allowing states to grant single-occupancy access to HOV lanes for qualifying low- and zero-emission vehicles.
Without extension, the programme is scheduled to expire on 30 September 2025.
“Solo EV drivers in Arizona have been able to use the HOV lane for years. The lane exemption programme doesn’t just incentivise the transition to clean energy vehicles, it eases congestion for all drivers. But without a legislative fix, this common-sense policy will expire this year,” said Stanton.
“The use of electric vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles should be incentivised and rewarded. These cars help reduce greenhouse gas emissions to address the threat of climate change, while also helping drivers save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in fuel annually,” DeSaulnier highlighted the environmental and economic benefits. “I have seen firsthand how California’s forward-looking policies on EVs, including its HOV Exemption programme, have improved quality of life and helped to protect our planet.”
The initiative has received backing from leading automotive and e-mobility organisations. For example, Genevieve Cullen, President of the Electric Drive Transportation Association, said: “Extending their authority to allow HOV lane access for advanced vehicle technologies helps drivers reduce the cost and time of their commutes while helping communities to reduce congestion and air pollution. It’s a win/win.”
Other supporters include the Center for Transportation and the Environment, the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association, the Renewable Fuels Association, the Renewable Natural Gas Coalition, and The Transport Project.
Both DeSaulnier and Stanton serve on the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure. DeSaulnier is a former member of the California Air Resources Board and has chaired state-level transportation committees.
However, it is not clear whether the act will pass. Since US President Donald Trump took office, he has shown again and again that he aims to eliminate EV incentives – not strengthen them. For instance, lawmakers scrapped the EV tax credit from 30 September, after which EV buyers will no longer receive a financial incentive. Trump also signed a resolution to block California’s plans to ban the sale of new combustion engine vehicles from 2035.
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