Defending Clean Cars in Virginia

Update: All clean car repeal bill have been defeated! 

Back again in 2024 are an onslaught of bills to repeal one of Virginia’s strongest climate laws. HB 3, 7, SB 53 and 160 all have the same goal: repeal clean cars in Virginia. 

These bills would roll back Virginia’s low-emission vehicle (LEV) and zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) program. These stronger regulations on tailpipe emissions reduce air pollution and lead to many more electric vehicles on the road. Rolling back this program has unfortunately been a priority for the Youngkin administration and many Republicans since it passed in 2021. 

Why defend clean cars?

1. Transportation is climate enemy number one with personal vehicles contributing more emissions than any other source in Virginia. Pollution from transportation leaves us with dirtier air to breath, health problems and a warming climate. But it doesn’t have to be this way. It is essential that we address this problem and ensure that Virginians have the ability to buy low or zero emission vehicles.
2. Virginians want EVs. Our clean cars program requires car manufacturers to actively supply Virginia’s lots with lower emission options. With many major car companies indicating a shift to electric vehicles (EVs), our clean car program makes certain Virginia is a part of that transition. The Virginia Automobile Dealers Association supports Clean Car Standards because Virginians want EVs and this policy ensures they can get them. 
3. Clean Car Standards help us plan for the future. Knowing Virginia’s will have more options and opportunities to buy electric vehicles, provides Virginia with the ability to plan for infrastructure electrification.

Update: Two of the bills to rollback clean cars have been voted against in a senate committee. Two bills remain.

Check out Environment Virginia’s 2024 Priorities information on other environmental issues we are tackling this year.