A joint resolution expressing support for phasing out the sale of new electric vehicles (EVs) in Wyoming by 2035 has been introduced. It is supported by four state senators and two state representatives.
The bill‘s language states that the oil and gas production has “long been one of Wyoming’s proud and valued industries,” and noted that gas and oil in Wyoming have created “countless jobs” and have “contributed revenues to the state throughout its history.”
The proposed legislation also argues the following:
• “Since its invention, the gas-powered vehicle has enabled the state’s industries and businesses to engage in commerce and transport goods and resources more efficiently throughout the country.”
• “Wyoming’s vast stretches of highway, coupled with a lack of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, make the widespread use of electric vehicles impracticable for the state.”
• “The batteries used in electric vehicles contain critical minerals whose domestic supply is limited and at risk for disruption.”
• “The critical minerals used in electric batteries are not easily recyclable or disposable, meaning that municipal landfills in Wyoming and elsewhere will be required to develop practices to dispose of these minerals in a safe and responsible manner.”
• “The expansion of electric vehicle charging stations in Wyoming and throughout the country necessary to support more electric vehicles will require massive amounts of new power generation in order to sustain the misadventure of electric vehicles.”
• “The United States has consistently invested in the oil and gas industry to sustain gas-powered vehicles, and that investment has resulted in the continued employment of thousands of people in the oil and gas industry in Wyoming and throughout the country.”
• “Fossil fuels, including oil and petroleum products, will continue to be vital for transporting goods and people across Wyoming and the United States for years to come.”
• “The proliferation of electric vehicles at the expense of gas-powered vehicles will have deleterious impacts on Wyoming’s communities and will be detrimental to Wyoming’s economy and the ability for the country to efficiently engage in commerce.”
• “Phasing out the sale of new electric vehicles in Wyoming by 2035 will ensure the stability of Wyoming’s oil and gas industry and will help preserve the country’s critical minerals for vital purposes.”
The bill is sponsored by Senator(s) Anderson, Boner, Cooper and Dockstader and Representative(s) Burkhart and Henderson. As of this publishing, no committee meetings or floor sessions have been scheduled.