Florida to unify EV charging stations regulations

Florida is preparing to table two new bills through the Florida House and Senate to set regulations on electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. But there’s a reason and argument why the state is proposing such bills.

Senate Bill 1084 and House Bill 1071 contain 80 pages each and include many changes in agriculture laws but it also bans local counties and cities from setting their standards on EV charging stations.

The debate on this matter is looking for an answer on who should control the EV charging infrastructure. These bills are coming after cities in Florida have come up with their own rules regarding EV charger installation.

Largo city government has been proactively advocating low-emission transportation. It has set a local ordinance in March 2022 to ensure new parking lots feature required EV charging stations. The ordinance also requires EV charging stations to be installed according to the size of the parking lot.

Largo Mayor Woody Brown said that the proposed bills could diminish Largo’s efforts in growing EV infrastructure.

The bills are looking to unify the regulations under The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, taking broad control in matters related to local counties and cities.

If the proposed bills come into effect, cities such as Largo would have to adjust their policies and follow the state’s command to set up the guidance on EV infrastructure.

(source – WTSP)