US Representatives Mark DeSaulnier of California and Greg Stanton of Arizona have introduced legislation to extend a federal programme allowing electric and alternative fuel vehicles to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes with only a single occupant. The proposed HOV Lane Exemption Reauthorization Act would continue the policy through 2031, aiming to reduce congestion, cut emissions and accelerate clean vehicle adoption nationwide.
Without Congressional action, the exemption is due to expire on Sept. 30, 2025. “Solo EV drivers in Arizona have been able to use the HOV lane for years. The lane exemption programme doesn’t just incentivise the transition to clean energy vehicles, it eases congestion for all drivers. But without a legislative fix, this common-sense policy will expire this year,” Stanton said.
DeSaulnier underscored the environmental and financial benefits of maintaining the scheme. “The use of electric vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles should be incentivised and rewarded. These cars help reduce greenhouse gas emissions to address the threat of climate change, while also helping drivers save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in fuel annually,” he said. “I have seen firsthand how California’s forward-looking policies on EVs, including its HOV Exemption programme, have improved quality of life and helped to protect our planet.”
The initiative has drawn support from industry groups including the Electric Drive Transportation Association, whose president Genevieve Cullen called it “a win/win” for drivers and communities. Other backers include the Center for Transportation and the Environment, the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association, the Renewable Fuels Association, the Renewable Natural Gas Coalition, and The Transport Project.
Both lawmakers serve on the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure. DeSaulnier is a former California Air Resources Board member and has chaired transportation committees at the state level. The bill’s prospects remain uncertain, with past federal policy under former President Donald Trump moving to curb EV incentives, including ending federal EV tax credits and blocking California’s planned 2035 ban on new combustion vehicle sales.
Source: stanton.house.gov, desaulnier.house.gov