Carmen Amato, a state senator for New Jersey’s 9th District, expressed concerns about electric vehicle (EV) mandates, suggesting they could create uncertainties for low-income residents, seniors, and struggling families. He made these remarks in a post on the New Jersey Business & Industry Association website.
“With an EV mandate, there will be too many unknowns for low- and moderate-income New Jerseyans, for seniors—many in my district, and also young people and families struggling to make ends meet,” said Amato, District 9. “Solutions being offered to those folks are programs to promote EV buses, rideshare alternatives or even bicycle ownership. For many residents… these are not realistic solutions. Many in my district would be unfairly impacted by such mandates.”
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the state has adopted the Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) standards as part of its Clean Energy Program. This initiative aims for 100% clean energy and a transition to zero-emission vehicles by 2035. The standards are intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and modernize the state’s transportation sector. However, there are concerns regarding the affordability and accessibility of electric vehicles for low- and moderate-income families.
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority reported that the average cost of a new electric vehicle remains approximately $50,000 before incentives, compared to around $35,000 for traditional internal combustion vehicles. Although programs such as NJ ZIP and Charge Up New Jersey offer rebates and grants, critics argue these measures are insufficient for many seniors, working families, and younger residents who face high living costs. This situation may lead to dependence on public EV buses, ridesharing, or bicycle programs that might not meet everyday transportation needs.
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), the ACCII regulations require that 43% of new light-duty vehicles sold in the state by model year 2027 be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), with this percentage increasing annually to reach 100% by 2035. This policy aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution but faces challenges regarding limited transit alternatives and the affordability of electric vehicles for low- and moderate-income residents.
Carmen F. Amato Jr., representing New Jersey’s 9th Legislative District since January 9, 2024, previously served as Mayor of Berkeley Township from 2012 to 2023 and was a member of the Berkeley Township Council from 2006 to 2011. In addition to his political career, Amato has experience in insurance and risk management.
