The Maine State Legislature introduced House Bill 3189 on April 21, 2025, aimed at establishing a tax framework for electric vehicle charging. The bill proposes a five-cent tax on each kilowatt-hour of electric fuel delivered at public charging stations, effective October 1, 2025. This tax is intended to generate revenue for the state, with proceeds allocated equally to the highway user tax distribution fund and the transportation advancement account.

Key provisions of the bill define a "public charging station" as a for-profit location where electric fuel is dispensed to electric vehicles, and outline the responsibilities of charging station operators to remit the tax monthly to the state’s revenue commissioner. Notably, the tax will not apply to electric vehicles charged at private residences or at charging stations with a capacity of less than 50 kilowatts. Additionally, legacy chargers will be exempt from the tax until January 1, 2032.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding its potential impact on the growing electric vehicle market in Maine. Proponents argue that the tax could provide essential funding for transportation infrastructure, while opponents express concerns about the financial burden it may place on electric vehicle users and the potential deterrent effect on the adoption of electric vehicles.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, experts suggest that its implications could extend beyond revenue generation. The tax may influence consumer behavior, encouraging the use of public charging stations and potentially shaping the future landscape of electric vehicle infrastructure in the state. The ongoing debates surrounding House Bill 3189 will likely continue to evolve as stakeholders weigh the benefits of funding against the need to support the transition to electric mobility.