California electric vehicle drivers lose major perk of purchase

"But the program ended on Oct. 1 when Congress did not reauthorize it. And Monday, after a 60-day grace period, the California Highway Patrol started enforcing standard vehicle occupancy rules. Violators could face a potential fine of $490. "We observed a 60 day grace period on citing drivers with the stickers for violating HOV occupancy laws," CHP spokesperson Sgt. Andrew Barclay told SFGATE in an email. "As of today, that grace period has ended, so we will be enforcing HOV violations, as necessary.""

""We have issued over one million decals since this program was approved, which has helped to foster a change in how we drive," he said. "Californians are committed to lowering their carbon footprint and these decals helped drivers be good stewards of our highways and environment. By taking away this program, hundreds of thousands of California's drivers will pay the price. It's a lose-lose and we urge the federal government to retain this program.""

Since 1999, qualifying California vehicles received Clean Air Vehicle decals allowing solo drivers to use carpool lanes and bridge toll plazas. The federal reauthorization expired Oct. 1, ending the program and prompting the CHP to enforce standard HOV occupancy rules after a 60-day grace period. Violators can face a potential $490 fine. The DMV reported issuing over one million decals and said the program reduced carbon footprints and encouraged responsible highway stewardship. Reactions among EV owners are mixed, with some disappointed enthusiasts and others saying high EV numbers reduced the decal's value in dense regions.

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