Texas Approves $200 Annual Fee for Electric Vehicle Drivers

Texas lawmakers have passed a bill that would require electric vehicle (EV) drivers to pay an annual $200 fee to register their cars, citing concerns about how EVs contribute to funding road improvements. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Gregg Abbott. Environmental and consumer protection groups have criticized the fee as "punitive" and "inequitable," arguing that EV drivers should not be punished for choosing a cleaner, greener car that saves them money on fuel and maintenance. If signed into law, the fee will go into effect on September 1.