October 23, 2023

Rep. Kennedy Oct. 23 Editorial: “No More Gas-Powered Vehicles?”

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Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Recently, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) submitted its proposed emissions standards which would effectively ban the sale of all new gas-powered cars by 2035. This proposal, modeled from other states like California, seeks to reduce our carbon footprint. The reality: these mandates will limit consumer choice, negatively impact our electric grid, and make Connecticut more unaffordable.

Residents of Milford and Orange have already contacted me opposing this proposal, sharing their concerns about the cost, maintenance, and safety of electric vehicles (EV’s). Right now, the average price of a gas-powered car is $33,797, while EV’s cost double that at $66,997. Not to mention that the average monthly EV insurance payment rings in at $206, which is 27% more than a combustion-engine vehicle, and it costs another $2,000 for owners to have an at-home charging station.

Surprisingly, these high costs are just the beginning. It is currently predicted that by 2032, the Giga Watt hours of grid demand is expected to increase from 56 (2023) to 2,535 (2032); a 4,427% increase overall. This means that a full electrification of our transportation system could cost from $1-3 billion in investments from utility companies, directly raising the rate for ratepayers.

Other impacts from mandating the sale of EV’s also negatively affect our environment. First, without ample sources of electricity to meet charging demands, we will be required to burn more coal to generate necessary amounts of electricity. Second, the manufacturing of EV batteries requires 30 times the amount of critical minerals (like lithium, cobalt, and nickel) which, when mined, contaminate local drinking water and ecosystems, while the mines themselves are notorious for inhumane working conditions.

My stance: Although I agree that EV’s should be integrated into modern transportation over time, the government has no right to limit your freedoms as a consumer. With studies demonstrating that 1 in 5 EV owners in California have switched back to gas-powered vehicles due to affordability and infrastructure concerns, it is irresponsible to mandate the sale of EV’s without necessary preparation and resources.

It’s not fair to force middle- and working-class families to purchase something they need that most people cannot afford. Furthermore, it’s also unfair to raise utility rates and make residents wonder about how we can pay for these grid upgrades. What’s next? Mileage taxes? Tolls?

Moving forward, DEEP’s proposal will be reviewed by the Regulation Review Committee, which evenly consists of 14 Democrats and Republicans. As members, they have the power to halt any unreasonable mandates before they are voted on by the General Assembly. As voters, we need to stand up against excessive government overreach and protect our freedoms as American consumers.

How can you share your voice? Contact your state elected officials today and be sure to take my brief survey at RepKennedy.com where you can submit your stance on the banning of new gas-powered vehicles in Connecticut and let me know how it will affect you.

As always, please never hesitate to reach out to me at Kathy.Kennedy@housegop.ct.gov or at 860-240-8700 with any questions, ideas, or concerns about this or any state issue.