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Committee advances bill allowing app-based payments for EV chargers at venues that require app-based entry
Summary
SB 533 passed the committee 13–0 as amended. The bill would permit certain electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at venues that already require an internet-based application for entry to accept app-based payments rather than on-site card readers, subject to specified conditions and amendments narrowing scope.
The Senate Committee on Energy, Utilities and Communications advanced SB 533 by Senator Richardson on a 13–0 vote after the author accepted committee amendments narrowing the bill’s scope.
Senator Richardson told the committee the bill updates payment options for EV chargers at large private venues that already use mobile apps for ticketing, parking and concessions. "SB 533 introduces a technology-driven option for larger private entities that support the need for charging stations at major public venues," Richardson said, noting venues in his district (including SoFi Stadium and Intuit Dome) have moved to app-based systems for ticketing and concessions.
Joe Lang, a representative of stadium operators, and James Jack of General Motors testified in support. Lang told the committee vendors have adopted high-level encryption to protect consumer payment information and that, because ticketing and concessions are already mobile, the EV charging app flow aligns with existing venue technology. "The purchase of tickets, concessions and EV charging is now streamlined through venue apps," Lang said.
Committee members asked practical and equity questions. Senator Wahab asked whether customers without smartphones would be excluded; Richardson and Lang explained venues provide will-call and point-of-contact options for customers who cannot access mobile apps. Senator Walhav (referred to in transcript as concerns about privacy/data sharing) raised privacy concerns about collecting payment and personal data via private apps; the sponsor said amendments narrow the bill to chargers "solely accessible at venues that require an internet-based application for entry" and emphasized that the bill would not force venues to adopt app-only systems.
The committee’s motion to pass SB 533 as amended to the Senate Transportation Committee carried 13–0. The amendments in committee clarified the bill applies only to EV chargers that are solely accessible at venues that require an internet-based application for entry.
Notes: The sponsor accepted technical amendments identified by staff and agreed to limit statewide application to venue-specific, app-based access conditions. Support witnesses included stadium and auto industry representatives.
