On July 13, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell ceremonially signed two pieces of legislation that will promote the use of alternative-fuel vehicles in the Commonwealth.
One bill, HB 2282, requires the development of a plan for replacement of vehicles in the state fleet with those powered by either natural gas, electricity, or other alternative fuels. The other, HB 2105, sets rules for electric vehicle charging stations and related business operations.
The Governor also signed an eexecutive order that directs the state to seek public-private partnerships to effect that conversion. McDonnell's order calls for monthly progress reports and delivery of recommendations about proposals submitted by May 2012. If a workable plan is found, the target date for completing negotiations on any alternative vehicle deal is July 2012.
The legislation was signed during a morning event at the Department of General Service's Office of Fleet Management Services in Richmond. The Office of Fleet Management Services oversees approximately 4,000 passenger-type vehicles, used by more than 175 state agencies and institutions. Fourteen alternative fuel vehicles and two alternative fuel vehicle chargers were also on display at the signing ceremony.
Flanked by the alternative fuel vehicles, Governor McDonnell remarked, "As we continue on the path toward making Virginia the Coast, it is important that we pursue all practicable and cost-effective options to promote the use of alternative fuel vehicles. Increased use of alternative fuel vehicles holds the potential to help reduce our dependence on foreign oil, support the expansion of private-sector businesses, and create new jobs here in the Commonwealth. “
He continued, “This potential is why, in my administration, Virginia is pursuing an 'all fuels approach' to the vehicles it uses in conducting its business. The legislation and executive order that I am signing today will provide the private sector an opportunity to develop creative partnerships to help the commonwealth meet its goals. “
For more information, visit Governor McDonnell's website.
Cheryl Kaften is an accomplished communicator who has written for consumer and corporate audiences. She has worked extensively for MasterCard (News - Alert) Worldwide, Philip Morris USA (Altria), and KPMG, and has consulted for Estee Lauder and the Philadelphia Inquirer Newspapers. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.
