Lawmaker wants to extend carpool lane access for clean cars
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A Los Angeles-area lawmaker wants to extend free access to some carpool lanes for Californians driving clean-energy cars.
The legislation, written by Assemblyman Bob Blumenfield (D-Woodland Hills), applies to vehicles running on electricity, hydrogen or natural gas.
Under legislation sponsored by Blumenfield last year, a driver behind the wheel of one of these cars doesn’t need to meet an occupancy requirement to drive in a carpool lane or pay a toll.
However, that benefit is set to expire in 2015. Blumenfield’s new proposal (AB 266) would extend it until 2025.
“Giving clean car drivers a fast pass through congested highways is a powerful incentive for consumers to choose these vehicles, especially in Los Angeles,” he said in a statement.
Getting a free carpool lane pass requires a state-issued sticker. So far 31,000 have been issued, according to Blumenfield’s office.
Twitter: @chrismegerian
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