UPDATE: On June 9, 2020, the governor signed this bill into law.

Our club is proud to be a voting member of Drive Electric Florida. Drive Electric Florida (DEF) is a unique stakeholder group representing automakers, utilities, charging infrastructure providers, environmentalists, local government, universities, Clean Cities coalitions, and electric vehicle enthusiast groups. It seeks to advance the energy, economic, and environmental security of Florida by promoting the growth of electric vehicle ownership and accompanying infrastructure. 

Yesterday, May 26, 2020, the Executive Director of DEF informed me that the President of the Florida Senate and Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives certified Senate Bill 7018 and presented it to Governor DeSantis. This act, related to Essential State Infrastructure, notably has provisions for developing a master plan for electric vehicle charging station infrastructure along the State Highway System.

The governor has until June 10th to take action on the measure. It is widely expected that he will sign this landmark EV Roadmap legislation into law.

The official summary of the bill states:

"Requires the FDOT, in coordination with the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Office of Energy within the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and any other public or private entities as necessary or appropriate, to develop and recommend a master plan for the development of electric vehicle charging station infrastructure along the State Highway System."

Please note the phrase, “…and any other public or private entities as necessary or appropriate.” The act recognizes that there is a place for the appropriate public and private organizations to contribute to developing a roadmap for electric vehicle infrastructure expansion, not just government agencies. That’s where Drive Electric Florida has been valuable, and continues to make meaningful contributions.  Regarding this public and private role, Matthew Alford, Executive Director, Drive Electric Florida states:

“This is a huge win for us as an organization, and a genuine opportunity to take the next meaningful steps toward recognition as the most visible and effective voice for electrification of Florida’s transportation sector.”

As an active member of Drive Electric Florida, our club will assist in its mission to promote electric vehicle ownership and infrastructure. The EV portion of this proposed legislation, spearheaded by Drive Electric Florida, is an essential step in that direction.

Larry Chanin

President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

email: lfchanin@gmail.com

Website: teslaownersflorida.org

Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts