Hochul Vetoes EV Training Bill Amid First Responder Concerns

Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed a bill that aimed to improve first responders' training in handling electric vehicle (EV) fires and other incidents. This action comes amidst growing concerns about the lack of preparedness among emergency services, as highlighted by a recent national study.

According to the study, 40% of first responders surveyed in 2023 admitted they had no training in dealing with EV fires and other incidents. Meanwhile, the State Department of Environmental Conservation is working on additional guidance for managing lithium-ion batteries, which power most EVs. This includes developing techniques for first responders to handle such incidents safely.

The vetoed bill proposed establishing an emergency response training program focused on EVs. The program would have been led by the state fire administrator. However, Governor Hochul vetoed the bill due to inappropriate timing and unaccounted funds in the state's financial plan. Despite the veto, the need for better training remains evident, as seen in a recent house fire in Salisbury, suspected to be caused by a lithium-ion battery used in a solar panel.

While the bill was vetoed, the issue of training first responders to handle EV-related incidents has not been resolved. The State Department of Environmental Conservation's ongoing work on guidance for managing lithium-ion batteries may help fill this gap. However, the need for a comprehensive training program, as initially proposed in the vetoed bill, remains a pressing concern for first responders and communities across the state.