NC Vermont News

Lynn Lafleur, Chair of the Lamoille County Republicans Committee, said she has concerns regarding Vermont's plan to adopt California's ban on new gas-powered cars by 2035. These concerns pertain to costs and practicality, as stated in a press release dated February 29, 2024.

"So do EVs make sense? In cities in warm climates, like southern California, you could argue that they do," said Lafleur. "But in thinly populated rural areas with a cold climate, like Vermont, not so much. And being pounded into accepting them makes them even less attractive – a loss of freedom and control over yet another part of life. Vermont's EV mandate should be repealed and EVs made optional."

In December 2022, Vermont adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule, aligning with California's motor vehicle emissions standards. According to the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, this regulation mandates manufacturers to gradually increase deliveries of new zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles for sale in Vermont starting in 2025.

According to NovaCharge, there are approximately 161,562 electric vehicle (EV) charging ports across the United States compared to about 145,000 gas stations. However, gas stations typically have multiple pumps allowing them to serve more vehicles simultaneously. In contrast, many EV charging stations can charge only one vehicle at a time. This disparity means EV drivers may face longer wait times and need to plan trips carefully to ensure access to charging facilities.

Electric vehicles often experience decreased range in cold temperatures. A study by AAA found that at 20°F, an EV's driving range can decrease by 41% when the heater is used. The press release notes that this reduction poses challenges for EV owners in colder climates like Vermont, where maintaining battery performance in winter conditions is critical.

Lafleur serves as the Chair of the Lamoille County Republicans Committee in Vermont. In this role, she advocates for policies that reflect the interests and values of local constituents and emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making in state mandates affecting residents.