New 2023 Traffic Law in Texas for Electric Vehicles

In Texas, a new law has introduced an annual $200 registration fee for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. As of September 1, 2023, EV owners will be charged this fee when registering or renewing their vehicles. This move comes as a response to the decline in gasoline taxes, a major funding source for road construction and maintenance in the state.

What is Texas Senate Bill 505?

Texas Senate Bill 505, passed earlier this year, aims to ensure that EV drivers contribute to the State Highway Fund, which the Texas Department of Transportation relies on for road-related expenses. Since EVs don’t use gasoline, their owners do not pay gasoline taxes that usually go into this fund. As a result, there’s a concern that as the number of EVs increases, the funding for roads might decrease.

A 2020 report by Texas agencies estimated that for each EV replacing a gasoline-powered car, the state loses an average of $200 annually in both federal and state gasoline tax revenue. As a solution, lawmakers decided to charge EV drivers a registration fee of $200, an amount equivalent to the average lost tax revenue per EV.

The newly imposed fee has stirred a debate among various stakeholders, including environmental and consumer advocates. Some argue that the fee should be set lower to cover only the lost state tax dollars, while others believe that EV drivers shouldn’t be charged at all since these vehicles help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Is This New Law Fair to EV Drivers in Texas?

One suggestion for a fairer system came from the Texas Electric Transportation Resources Alliance, which proposed a fee based on the number of miles driven by an EV, similar to how gasoline taxes are assessed.

To help offset the cost of the new fee, Texas offers rebates of up to $2,500 for up to 2,000 new hydrogen fuel cell, electric, or hybrid vehicles every two years. However, some advocates, such as Public Citizen’s Texas office director, have called for an expansion of these rebates, but an expansion is unlikely at this point. 

The Future of Texas’ Roads

In the end, as the number of electric vehicles on Texas roads grows, it’s crucial to find a balanced approach to road funding. While it’s important to support the adoption of cleaner transportation options, it’s also essential to ensure that the costs of road construction and maintenance are shared by all road users, regardless of the type of vehicle they drive.

The introduction of this registration fee for electric vehicle drivers in Texas demonstrates the need for a comprehensive and fair system to fund road infrastructure. As the shift towards cleaner transportation continues, policymakers will have to consider alternative funding options that balance the interests of EV owners, taxpayers, and road users while ensuring sustainable revenue for road construction and maintenance.

For individuals impacted by these new laws or other traffic-related issues in Texas, seeking legal advice from qualified traffic attorneys may be a prudent step. Legal professionals can provide valuable insights and assistance in navigating the complex landscape of traffic laws and regulations.

If you’ve been charged with a traffic violation in the state of Texas or beyond, then fill out the questionnaire at the top of this page or call 1-888-296-3059 for a free consultation with a qualified attorney. It is always a good idea to fight your traffic ticket.