ST. PAUL – In order to stop rising vehicle prices in Minnesota, State Representative Greg Davids (R-Preston) said he is supporting legislation that would eliminate the California cars mandate that was put into place through administrative rulemaking by Governor Walz’s administration.
“The reason Governor Walz went around the Legislature on this is because he knew overwhelming majority of common-sense lawmakers would never vote for it,” Davids said. “The California cars mandate will have no measurable impact in Minnesota, yet anyone buying a car is going to feel a significant financial impact.”
Beginning this year, the mandate imposes California’s emission rules on all cars sold in Minnesota. This includes a zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) standard – which requires automakers to provide more low and zero-emission vehicle options, such as electric vehicles. The mandate is expected to raise the price of new vehicles purchased in this state by at least $1,000.
Davids said this is forcing auto dealers to carry more electric vehicles – whether there is public demand for them or not - and fewer vehicles that are popular in Minnesota, such as pickups and SUV’s.
“During the winter months in southeastern Minnesota, many people aren’t interested in driving a small electric car,” Davids said. “They want something reliable that they know will get them through a foot of snow. By limiting consumer choice, the Walz administration is driving up automobile costs, which is something our poorest residents will not be able to afford.”