Wyoming legislators propose bill to phase out electric vehicles by 2035

A group of Wyoming Republican lawmakers proposed a bill that would phase out the sale of electric vehicles, with the intent of protecting the state's economy which relies heavily on oil and gas production.

The bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Jim Anderson, highlights how valuable the oil and gas industries have been to Wyoming due to their contribution to the local economy and the employment opportunities that they generate across the state.

In fact, lawmakers who support the proposal stated that they are concerned about the enormous possibility that unemployment will rise if fossil fuel production is decreased, which would occur if President Joe Biden's plan for fossil fuels is carried out. Electric vehicles will dominate the country's roads in the future.

They also commented on the great efforts that would have to be made to install sufficient charging stations along the roads, in addition to constant electricity to ensure good service.

"We are countering what California and Oregon have started with stopping sales of new petroleum vehicles," Anderson said.

The legislators highlighted the risks posed by the minerals used in electric vehicle batteries, which are also difficult to recycle or dispose of.

"Phasing out the sale of new electric vehicles in Wyoming by 2035 will ensure the stability of Wyoming’s oil and gas industry and will help preserve the country’s critical minerals for vital purposes," the bill states.

Other states oppose

A recent report by the Wall Steet Journal stressed that there are several states that oppose Joe Biden's intent for electric cars to dominate the market for several reasons. The first is that cold weather reduces the EV range, Another reason is that these vehicles are prone to malfunction, not to mention that it would be difficult to maintain charging stations.