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Committee tables bill requiring electric vehicle charging in underground Capitol parking after debate over scope and equity
Summary
Senator Webb's bill to require that 43% of vehicle parking spaces beneath the legislative building be equipped with EV chargers was tabled after members raised questions about equity, costs, statute authority and whether the capital planning commission or General Services should lead infrastructure improvements.
Senator Webb presented SB447, a bill that would require electric vehicle charging stations in the parking facility beneath the legislative building so that at least 43% of the vehicle parking spaces are equipped with EV chargers by Dec. 31, 2026. The sponsor said the percentage aligns with a statewide auto-industry sales target and that equipment costs could range substantially depending on infrastructure upgrades.
Committee members expressed mixed reactions. Senator Townsend and others questioned whether the bill unduly prioritizes charging infrastructure for legislators and staff beneath the Roundhouse rather than at other state parking areas or private locations. Members raised cost concerns, possible electrical infrastructure upgrades, demand charges, the current limited EV ownership in many districts and the broader policy debate about mandating EV infrastructure in new construction.
Senator Webb acknowledged the capital planning commission and General Services Department have existing facilities planning roles; members suggested the project might be more appropriately handled by capital planning rather than statute. Several members said the bill lacked technical witnesses and detailed engineering cost estimates, and some questioned whether the bill should cover all state properties rather than only the underground legislative parking.
After debate, Senator Stewart moved to table the bill; the motion to table was put to a roll-call vote and carried. The chair announced the bill was tabled and the committee moved on to other items.
