DOVER — With a controversial electric vehicle (EV) sales mandate still on the books and set to take effect without legislative action or regulatory repeal, Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn (R – Georgetown) has introduced Senate Bill 140 (SB 140). The legislation seeks to prohibit the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) from enacting regulations that limit the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars, trucks, and SUVs.
This measure mirrors 2023’s Senate Bill 96 and comes on the heels of Governor Matt Meyer’s public opposition to the EV mandate advanced by the previous administration.
“Electric vehicles have a place in our transportation future, and anyone who wants to buy one should be free to do so,” said Senator Pettyjohn. “But EVs are not a realistic option for every Delawarean, especially those living in rural areas, those with long commutes, or people without access to reliable charging infrastructure. This one-size-fits-all mandate ignores those realities and pushes us closer to an energy supply crisis.”
SB 140 would prevent DNREC from enforcing any future regulations that restrict the sale of vehicles currently legal under Delaware’s Clean Car standards. The bill would not impact existing emissions requirements but would halt the agency’s ability to pursue California-style bans on fuel-powered vehicles.
“Delaware’s electric grid is already under increasing strain. Forcing more EVs onto car lots, and subsequently into garages, will only compound the problem,” Senator Pettyjohn added. “We should be working to expand energy options and consumer freedom, not limit them.”
Senate Bill 140 has been filed and awaits consideration in the Senate Environment, Energy, & Transportation Committee.
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