North Carolina’s House Transportation Committee has approved a bill that would impose a $100 fine on combustion-engined vehicle drivers who park in spots designated specifically for EV charging, according to The Charlotte Observer. The practice, known as ICE-ing, has become increasingly common throughout the country and the world in recent years. Some Tesla owners even fought back by blocking gas pumps. Now, some state-level governments are taking action against ICE vehicle owners.
“The intent of the bill is to keep combustion engines out of those EV charging spots,” said Rep. Harry Warren, a Republican. The bill would limit the use of designated charging station parking spots to electric vehicles, assuming they are plugged into the charger. The law would apply to charging stations owned by local governments and public agencies, as well as stations on private property that have a sign posted specifically stating they’re for EV charging only.
This is actually the second time the North Carolina House has passed a bill like this. The first time was back in 2021, but the bill ultimately stalled in the Senate.
Other House members did express some concern that there’s really no way to prove that an owner of, say, a Chevy Bolt EV, is actually using the charging station or if they’re just using the spot for convenience. Republican Rep Jay Adams questioned, “So you could park a vehicle, plug it in and leave it there indefinitely?” In reality, the chances of that happening are slim.
Other House members who are against the bill argue that since there’s no law banning gas-powered vehicles from parking in front of gas pumps and not using them, why should EVs receive special consideration? A few claim that regulations regarding EV charging spots should be left up to local city governments. The $100 fine was also considered by a few to be too steep, countering that a $25 fine was more suitable.
What was not included in the failed bill from two years ago is a new provision stating that if an EV charging station doubles as a handicap spot any vehicle with a handicap placard, regardless of powertrain type, could park there legally. This provision helps ensure that those with disabilities have equal access to charging stations.
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As EV adoption continues to rise, it’s likely that more states will follow North Carolina’s lead in passing laws to protect EV charging spots from ICE-ing. However, the issue of how to enforce these laws and prevent abuse of charging spots remains a challenge.
