Bill > HB2005

This bill adds a new section to Washington state law that specifically addresses criminal damage to electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, creating a graduated penalty system based on the value of damage caused. Under the proposed law, intentionally damaging an EV charging station through actions like cutting wires, tampering with operations, or stealing infrastructure would be considered a criminal offense with penalties ranging from a gross misdemeanor (for damages under $1,000) to a class B felony (for damages over $5,000). The bill includes several key provisions: it does not apply to electricity service providers who might accidentally cause damage, requires convicted offenders to pay restitution to the station owner, mandates an additional $100 fine to be deposited into transportation-related accounts, and allows victims to file civil lawsuits to recover actual damages and up to $5,000 in additional civil damages. The legislation defines an EV charging station broadly, including the charging equipment, connection points, and related infrastructure that facilitates charging electric vehicles. By creating specific legal consequences for intentional damage to these stations, the bill aims to protect the growing electric vehicle charging infrastructure and discourage vandalism or theft.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2005&Year=2025&Initiative=false