Assembly Committee Approves Lieu Bill to Increase Use of Alternative Fuels

Sacramento, CA –The Assembly Business and Professions Committee today approved AB 236 by Assemblymember Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) to challenge our state’s vehicle fleet to reduce its petroleum dependence and move forward on using alternative fuel vehicles.

“There is a tremendous amount of focus right now on how we can reduce our dependence on petroleum and increase the use of alternative fuels,” said Assemblymember Lieu.  “One critical area where alternative fuel use is grossly underutilized and where we need to focus our energy is on the state and local vehicle fleets.”

AB 236 requires California to develop a roadmap to reduce fuel consumption in the state fleet, with the goal of a 20% reduction by 2020.  It also endeavors to ensure that alternative fuel capable vehicles are actually fueled with alternative fuels, instead of normal gasoline, and improves accountability by requiring more documentation on vehicle purchasing decisions.

“By converting the state fleet to more fuel efficient vehicles, the state will be reducing its dependence on foreign oil and taking steps to meet its greenhouse gas emission targets,” said Assemblymember Lieu. 

Under federal law, 75% of non-law enforcement state fleet purchases must be capable of running on alternative fuels. However, there is no requirement for these vehicles to actually run on alternative fuels.  Nearly all the vehicles purchased or leased simply run on gasoline, which defeats the purpose of purchasing the vehicles.

AB 236 will now move to the Assembly Appropriations Committee.