Colorado lawmakers propose electric vehicle infrastructure and consumer protection bill

The Colorado Legislature convened on April 17, 2025, for House Legislative Day 100, where lawmakers discussed a significant bill aimed at enhancing the infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) in the state. The proposed legislation includes three main components: the establishment of a new oversight program for retail EV charging stations, an expansion of the allowable uses for the EV grant fund, and the authority for the community access enterprise board to adjust fees related to EV infrastructure.

One of the key features of the bill is the introduction of a consumer protection program at the Department of Labor and Employment. This program aims to ensure that consumers receive the correct amount of electricity when charging their vehicles, similar to the protections currently in place for gasoline purchases. The bill also seeks to broaden the scope of the EV grant fund to support operational and policy work that promotes EV adoption and covers administrative costs.

During the meeting, lawmakers expressed differing views on the popularity and viability of electric vehicles. Proponents highlighted that EV purchases accounted for over 25% of vehicle sales in Colorado in the last quarter of 2024, making the state a leader in EV adoption. They argued that the technology has matured, offering consumers a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional vehicles.

Conversely, some lawmakers raised concerns about the sustainability of the EV market. Critics pointed to issues such as dealership frustrations over sales quotas for electric vehicles and the significant subsidies that support EV purchases. They argued that the current market dynamics create a burden on traditional vehicle sales and questioned the long-term viability of EVs without continued financial support.

The discussion also touched on the fiscal implications of the proposed legislation, with some representatives urging caution regarding the funding mechanisms for EV infrastructure. They expressed concerns that the delivery fees used to subsidize charging stations could be perceived as circumventing voter preferences on tax revenue allocation.

As the meeting concluded, supporters of the bill emphasized the importance of consumer protection and the need to adapt to the growing demand for electric vehicles. The outcome of this legislative proposal could significantly impact the future of EV infrastructure and adoption in Colorado, as lawmakers continue to navigate the complexities of this evolving market.