Rhode Island Leaders Want To End Sale Of Gas-Powered Cars By 2035
The McKee administration announced Wednesday the state is looking to phase out the sale of new gas-powered vehicles in Rhode Island by 2035. Rhode Island would join seven other states, including Massachusetts, in implementing a policy to control carbon pollution by cutting tailpipe emissions from cars, trucks, and SUVs. “The Act on Climate put us on the clock for meeting major carbon reduction mandates, and it’s clear to me that Rhode Island will only meet the mandates by addressing the transportation sector head-on,” Gov. Dan McKee said. McKee said he wants the state to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. He’s hoping to adopt California’s Advanced Clean Cars II and Advanced Clean Trucks standards to fight climate change. McKee’s office said car manufacturers are already working to meet customer demand on the emerging regulatory requirements.
Rhode Island is joining neighboring states to cut GHGs and air pollution, which have the most impact on our communities that border our major roads and highways, creating a disproportionate impact in those neighborhoods. The environmental and health impacts from improving the air quality in these areas will be significant. In terms of economic impact, states joining together to send a clear signal to the market will result in greater economies of scale, driving down the prices of ZEVs, and ensuring that Rhode Island dealers and customers have full access to electric vehicles. The rules do not affect used cars or regulate auto dealers or customers. Gasoline-powered cars can still be driven in Rhode Island, registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles, and sold as used cars to new owners. Rhode Island has been making great strides toward net-zero carbon emission.
