Bill > S2653

This bill, known as the RECHARGE Act (Recharge your Electric Car on the Highway to Alleviate Range Gaps Effectively Act), would modify existing federal transportation law to allow electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at rest areas along the Interstate Highway System, which is currently prohibited. Specifically, the bill would permit the Secretary of Transportation to authorize electric vehicle charging infrastructure for passenger automobiles at interstate rest areas, with the important caveat that these charging stations would not open the door to broader commercial activities along highway rights-of-way. The bill makes some technical conforming amendments to other sections of transportation law, including adjusting language in the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program and in Jason's Law. The legislation includes a clause emphasizing that the bill does not change or impact existing presidential or federal agency authority regarding highway rest areas. The primary goal appears to be increasing access to EV charging infrastructure by allowing such stations at convenient interstate rest stops, which could help address range anxiety for electric vehicle drivers and support the broader transition to electric transportation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2653/all-info