Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak announced Monday that his state would evaluate the adoption of new low and zero emission electric cars and trucks regulations as part of a “Clean Cars Nevada” initiative.
The regulations would provide residents in that state with more choices when it comes to electric passenger cars and trucks while advancing the state’s climate change and sustainability goals, the governor’s office said. Additionally, the initiative will reduce air pollution on Nevada roads and help to strengthen the economy.
The governor’s office was quick to point out that while the initiative would benefit the state by providing cleaner, more efficient transportation options, it would not require anyone to give up their current vehicle.
The initiative will be tailored to the state’s needs through “inclusion of robust stakeholder engagement and solicitation of input from the general public, business and industry partners, conservation organizations, and all who have an interest in this important undertaking,” the governor’s office said.
“Now more than ever, it is critical for Nevada to continue accelerating efforts to address climate change, including capturing the many benefits of sustainable transportation options for Nevadans,” said Governor Sisolak. “Now is the time to set a new trajectory that will lead to healthier communities across the Silver State and establish Nevada as a leader in the clean transportation economy. For the sake of Nevada’s future, and our children’s future, we are taking action. This kind of decisive action is the first of many steps we will be taking as part of my commitment to addressing climate change under the State of Nevada Climate Initiative.”
From now through 2021, the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) will work with stakeholders through public workshops to gather input and feedback across Nevada. The input will map out the look and feel of the proposed regulation in advance of its consideration by the state’s Environmental Commission and the state’s Legislative Commission.
“Cleaner cars provide cleaner air and healthier communities for the benefit of all Nevadans,” said Bradley Crowell, director of the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “Transportation is the number one source of greenhouse gases in Nevada, and therefore a top priority for addressing climate change statewide. To move Nevada’s climate future forward, we must reduce pollution from the cars and trucks we drive as well as modernize our urban planning efforts through transit-oriented development and electrification of our transportation infrastructure. Establishing new Clean Car Standards will help address the harmful impacts of climate change stemming from vehicle tailpipe pollution, while simultaneously advancing a stronger, more resilient economy for Nevada.”