Briefs: marijuana reclassification, vehicle fees, and climate grants

The trucking industry goes through new legislation, taxes and subsidies

Questions about the proposed reclassification of marijuana

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) supports the recent review by the U.S. Department of Transportation of its drug policy but raises questions about the proposed reclassification of marijuana. OOIDA submitted comments on July 22 regarding the DEA’s proposal to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of controlled substances, emphasizing that the rule raises significant uncertainties for the trucking industry.

In particular, the association is concerned about how this reclassification could influence DOT regulations that prohibit marijuana use among drivers. While DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg has stated that the prohibition will remain in effect regardless of reclassification, OOIDA underscores that road safety must be a priority when considering any policy changes.

Furthermore, OOIDA has expressed support for DOT’s current stance on marijuana and has identified several critical aspects that need to be addressed in any future policy modification, including impairment levels, detection methods, roadside enforcement capability, medical benefits, and driver retention. The association emphasizes its firm opposition to the use of illegal substances by commercial vehicle drivers.

Lastly, OOIDA points out that the DEA’s proposed marijuana reclassification process in May does not imply federal legalization of the drug and highlights concerns about implications for road safety, underscored by research indicating adverse effects on driving under the influence of marijuana.

Debate: Imposition of additional fees for electric and hybrid vehicles

The imposition of additional fees on owners of electric and hybrid vehicles remains a debated topic in state legislatures. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, at least 34 states have established special registration fees for plug-in electric vehicles, with many also applying these fees to plug-in hybrids.

These fees vary significantly between states, ranging from $50 annually in Colorado, Hawaii, and South Dakota to $225 annually in Washington. Approximately six states adjust these fees annually, tying them to the Consumer Price Index or another inflationary measure.

Recently, several states have enacted laws to increase revenue through new fees on these vehicles. For example, Pennsylvania now requires owners to submit monthly statements and pay a flat fee of $200 for electric vehicles, increasing to $250 in 2026 with annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index. Maryland and New Jersey have also established new annual registration fees of $250 and $290 respectively for electric vehicles.

On the other hand, Vermont will introduce annual registration fees of $89 for electric vehicles and $44.50 for hybrids starting in 2025, with revenues allocated to electric vehicle charging stations.

These measures aim to generate additional revenue for state road funds and other infrastructures, though they continue to generate debate over fairness and support for the adoption of clean technologies.

EPA: Grants to reduce climate pollution

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the allocation of over $4 billion in grants to reduce climate pollution, funding projects in 30 states. This funding supports programs addressing the climate crisis, reducing air pollution, promoting environmental justice, and accelerating the transition to clean energy in the United States.

A significant portion of these grants, over $1 billion, is allocated to 11 projects in the transportation sector, including five initiatives focused on zero-emission trucks. These vehicles, whether electric or hydrogen-powered, are considered “zero direct emissions” although the production and handling of their batteries are not emissions-neutral.

The majority of funding, nearly $500 million, is allocated to the South Coast Air Quality Management District in California. This includes installing over 1,000 chargers and adopting 800 zero-emission trucks in the region, marking the largest grant in EPA history. In the Northeast, nearly $250 million will be used for developing charging infrastructure for zero-emission trucks along the Interstate 95 corridor.

Other states benefiting include Utah, Oregon, and Illinois, receiving $75 million, $200 million, and over $400 million respectively for similar initiatives. These funds are designed to incentivize the adoption of clean technologies, improve air quality, and create economic opportunities in affected communities.