South Bergen News

Carmen Amato, Senator for New Jersey, expressed concerns over proposed electric vehicle (EV) solutions that aim to replace traditional vehicles, suggesting they pose unrealistic expectations for many residents. The statement was made at a rally on June 18, 2024.

"With an EV mandate, there will be too many unknowns for low- and moderate-income New Jerseyans, for seniors—many in my district, and also young people and families struggling to make ends meet," said Amato. "Solutions being offered to those folks are programs to promote EV buses, rideshare alternatives or even bicycle ownership. For many residents… these are not realistic solutions."

Amato's remarks were in response to New Jersey's plan to adopt California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) program. This initiative mandates that 35% of all new vehicle sales be zero-emission by 2026. However, current EV sales in New Jersey represent only 13.25% of new vehicle sales, highlighting a significant gap in meeting the target. Critics argue that this ambitious mandate may disproportionately affect low- and moderate-income residents who may not afford the transition to electric vehicles, according to Shore News.

A white paper by Affordable Energy for New Jersey estimates that the state's EV mandate could cost taxpayers approximately $70 billion by 2035. The report highlights that most of these costs would stem from increased vehicle subsidies to promote EV adoption, lost sales tax revenues due to EV purchase exemptions, and decreased gas tax revenues as more drivers switch to electric vehicles. These financial implications raise concerns about the economic burden on New Jersey residents.

A Rutgers-Eagleton poll reveals that while 58% of New Jersey residents expect improved air quality from the EV mandate, 44% believe it will negatively impact the state's economy. Additionally, 47% of respondents feel the policy will adversely affect their personal finances, highlighting concerns about the economic implications of the mandate on individual households.

According to the New Jersey Legislature's official website, Carmen Amato has served as a Republican senator representing New Jersey’s 9th legislative district since January 2024. Prior to his election, he served as mayor of Berkeley Township for over a decade, focusing on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure improvements, and senior services. Amato has been vocal about economic and transportation equity issues affecting his constituents.