AN ACT to APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE and other zero emission vehicle CONSUMER EDUCATION AND ADOPTION PROGRAM.

Whereas, the General Assembly finds that the advancement and public adoption of electric vehicles and other zero emission vehicles throughout the State would benefit motor vehicle consumers, statewide air quality, and thus the overall public health of all North Carolinians; and

Whereas, while ownership of electric vehicles and other zero emission vehicles in North Carolina is increasing, the number of electric vehicles registered in the State remains less than one percent (1%) of all motor vehicle registrations; and

Whereas, consumer perceptions and misconceptions regarding the relatively new electric vehicle and vehicle charging technology and other zero emission vehicle technology serve as a significant barrier to widespread adoption of electric vehicles; and

Whereas, consumer education regarding the availability, costs, benefits, and advantages of electric vehicle and vehicle charging technology and other zero emission vehicle technology will serve to increase adoption of electric vehicles and other zero emission vehicles by North Carolina consumers; Now, therefore,

The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:

SECTION 1.  There is appropriated from the General Fund to the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association Charitable Foundation (Foundation), the sum of two hundred forty thousand dollars ($240,000) in nonrecurring funds for each year of the 2021‑2023 fiscal biennium as a grant‑in‑aid to be used by the Foundation, in conjunction with the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, to establish the Electric Vehicle and Zero Emission Vehicle Consumer Education and Adoption Program for the purpose of educational outreach to expand public awareness, understanding, and comfort with electric vehicle and other zero emission vehicle technology.

SECTION 2.  This act becomes effective July 1, 2021.