Fahy, Romero Introduce Legislation to Renew EV Direct Sales Location Certificates, Expand EV Ownership

ALBANY, N.Y. – Today, Senator Patricia Fahy (D—Albany) and Assemblymember Gabriella Romero (D, WF—Albany, Guilderland, New Scotland) introduced new legislation (S.6894 Fahy/A.XXXX Romero) aimed at accelerating the transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in New York State. The legislation requires the New York State Commissioner of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to re-evaluate existing certificates of registration and issue new certificates to ZEV-exclusive manufacturers not previously granted certificates of registration. This legislation prohibits renewal of certificates for ZEV manufacturers who were previously issued certificates.

It keeps the current cap of five direct sales locations, maintaining the state’s measured approach and preventing market disruption. This legislation provides controlled growth of New York’s ZEV market by not granting indefinite privileges to early entrants—currently, all five direct sales locations are located downstate and are operated by Tesla, Inc., which limits consumer choice and prevents other manufacturers from entering the market. The bill would allow new manufacturers to enter the market and ensure that there is an opportunity to expand these locations geographically.

New York has set a target of reaching 100% zero-emission new vehicle sales by 2035, in accordance with the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). However, limited geographical access to direct sales has remained a barrier to wider adoption, a challenge this legislation seeks to address. With major automakers transitioning toward all-electric lineups, the bill will help attract industry leaders seeking to expand their presence in the state while supporting local job growth in the clean energy and transportation sectors.

"As New York moves toward a clean energy future, we must ensure that consumers have greater access to zero-emission vehicles while fostering competition and innovation in the marketplace,” said Senate bill sponsor Senator Patricia Fahy (D—Albany). “This legislation takes a measured approach to inducing the growth of direct sales and opening the door for new ZEV manufacturers to enter New York State’s market, while keeping us on track to meet our ambitious climate goals."

“New York is committed to achieving our environmental goals, and we’re also committed to giving consumers access and choice when it comes to zero-emission vehicles,” said Assembly bill sponsor Assemblymember Gabriella Romero (D, WF—Albany, Guilderland, New Scotland). “We want to make sure New Yorkers get the benefit of market competition, and this bill allows new ZEV manufacturers to come here and expand direct sales. As we work to make our state more green, we’re also working to bring more options for ZEV consumers throughout the state – not just close to New York City and certainly not just Tesla.”

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