Unless Congress passes a special waiver, Schwarzenegger’s HOV-access law is stalled Despite all the fanfare surrounding California’s recent action to allow hybrid vehicles in HOV lanes, there’s a small problem that still needs to be worked out. It violates Federal Law. Specifically, HOV lanes built with Federal funding are only to be used by vehicles carrying more than one person. HOV stands for High Occupancy Vehicle. The rules do allow an exemption for natural gas-powered vehicles, but hybrids do not qualify. The penalty for flouting the law can range from denial or confiscation of federally-provided highway money. So despite the action by the California legislature and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the new law will not be able to go into effect January 1. Unless, that is, a federal waiver is obtained that would permit California to implement its new policy. California’s law would allow up to hybrid vehicles that get at least 45 miles per gallon to have HOV access, and limits the statewide number of permits to 75,000. The law also allows state officials to close access on HOV lanes deemed to be too crowded. Read entire article by clicking this link.
Other states have gotten the waiver for the Prius for use of the HOV lane, so this does not necessarily kill the issue. Presidential politics might be a factor here. Bush won' t get the California vote so he might not go along. And Bush may feel that Ahhnold didn't help him enough by campaining on his behalf, so this might work against the state. Though seeing as how Bush is such a decent and honorable man, I guess that could never happen.
Re: California’s Hybrid Law May be Barred from Going into Ef Maybe they could make up for that loss in partial revenue by charging folks for the hybrid carpool stickers. Hell, I'd pay $500 a year for one -- it would save me SO much time and toll road fees, and fuel as well! That may displace the federal funds losses. Just a thought. Dianne
The HOV lane use for one driver hybrids is elitist and rediculous. It is to promote good driving habits, not to reward people who are able to buy something is short supply. If you want to do it when you can pick it up on the lot the same day, then perhaps. If you want to be really eco-conscious, create a car pool with your Prius. If not, just enjoy the ride and savings.
