New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an executive order mandating all state vehicles must transition to electric power by the year 2035. This decision is part of a broader push by the governor to promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) across the state.
Governor Grisham, known for her penchant for issuing mandates, made this announcement during a symposium on the future of transportation in New Mexico. The governor’s office is also planning to increase EV tax credits as part of an effort to make these vehicles more affordable for consumers.
Mark Ronchetti thinks the Pueblo Revolt is an electric car and that's just not accurate. Bad for history, Bad for New Mexico. pic.twitter.com/l4k0EDAoHx
— Rob Knockeye (@NotHolidayRob) October 5, 2022
The governor’s decision has been met with skepticism by some who question the feasibility of such a large-scale transition within the given timeframe. Critics argue making decisions today for what will happen over a decade from now may not take into account potential changes in technology, infrastructure, and public opinion.
Furthermore, there are concerns about the financial implications of this mandate. New Mexico, being one of the poorer states in the country, may face challenges in funding the transition to an entirely electric vehicle fleet.
Critics argue the governor should focus on improving the state’s economic status before embarking on such ambitious projects.
New Mexico Democrat forces all taxpayer-funded state-owned cars to go electric. Supporting other countries other than America first encomy, high inflation worthless dollar bill demon-rats policies, and full affect! pic.twitter.com/gJTFkirsxY
— Retrans06 (@Retrans06) October 17, 2023
Despite these criticisms, Governor Grisham remains is not going to be walking back this mandate anytime soon. She argues consumers and dealers are seeking better access to electric vehicles and her administration’s actions are aimed at leveling the playing field.
Grisham also emphasized the state government must lead by example in adopting low-and-zero-emission vehicles. By requiring the state fleet to be zero-emission by 2035, she believes New Mexico is ‘walking the walk’ when it comes to environmental responsibility.
