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By Shanteya Hudson
June 26, 2024
Georgia lawmakers with the group Elected Officials to Protect America are spotlighting the health and environmental benefits of electric vehicles.
As part of an awareness tour at the State Capitol this week, officials touted the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act in the shift toward clean energy. They said it not only will improve public health but support the government’s Justice40 Initiative to help disadvantaged communities.
Rep. Sandra Scott, D-Rex, said now is the crucial time for cities to take decisive action against climate change.
“We all are used to our city being hot but now with the climate crisis, heat and precipitation put us at risk of fires and floods,” Scott pointed out.
Scott believes accelerating the shift to electric vehicles is key to transitioning to clean energy, as vehicle emissions account for at least 25% of the greenhouse gases contributing to the climate crisis.
Scott noted reduced tailpipe emissions mean people who are disproportionately exposed to pollution can have better health outcomes.
“Estimates show that transitioning to zero-emission trucks could save nearly 67,000 lives and prevent premature death and chronic respiratory illnesses, particularly in Justice40 communities,” Scott emphasized.
Several communities have already used Inflation Reduction Act funds to get more EVs on the road. Solvay Specialty Polymers in Augusta received $178 million from the Department of Energy to build a new battery plant.
Kate Kruk, former school board member of the Schalmont Central School District, who spoke at the awareness tour, said there are also incentives making it easier for people to buy EVs.
“As part of the Inflation Reduction Act, I believe there is also a federal $4,000 tax credit that’s available across the country for used electric vehicles,” Kruk observed.
There is a $7,500 credit for new EVs. Leaders said the transition to EVs and cleaner energy means economic growth and jobs. In Georgia, there have been investments in 19 facilities adding up to more than $26 billion and creating more than 23,000 jobs.
Jonesborough Mayor Donya Sartor came to the EOPA electric vehicle demonstration with other officials of her city to look at the different EV models for their fleet. (Photo by Lauren Urbiztondo)