We, the undersigned residents and vehicle owners of Arizona, respectfully urge you to support the continuation and expansion of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane access for Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs), including electric vehicles (EVs), beyond the current federal expiration date of September 30, 2025.

This issue transcends political affiliation and speaks to shared values held by all Arizonans: economic responsibility, personal freedom, clean air, efficient infrastructure, and energy independence. We believe that preserving HOV lane access for AFVs is a smart, bipartisan policy that benefits our state in the following ways:

1. Economic Freedom and Consumer Choice: HOV access incentivizes smart personal investments in cost-saving technologies. EVs save drivers thousands of dollars over their lifetimes in fuel and maintenance costs. The HOV lane benefit provides working families and small business owners with a practical reason to choose clean vehicles, helping them save time and money while reducing dependence on volatile gas prices.

2. Infrastructure Efficiency: Allowing single-occupant AFVs in HOV lanes has proven to ease congestion in general-purpose lanes without materially degrading HOV lane performance. With over 100,000 EVs on Arizona roads, removing this incentive would create additional pressure on already crowded freeways, costing commuters time and increasing public infrastructure expenses.

3. Clean Air and Public Health: Transportation is a leading source of pollution in Arizona. HOV access has helped increase adoption of cleaner vehicles that reduce smog-forming pollutants and greenhouse gases. This translates into tangible public health benefits, including fewer asthma attacks and respiratory issues—particularly in vulnerable populations like children and seniors.

4. Energy Security and American Innovation: EVs and other AFVs support U.S. energy independence by reducing oil imports. Arizona is also a growing hub for EV manufacturing, creating jobs and strengthening the state economy. Maintaining HOV access will continue to attract investment and innovation.

5. Fairness and Opportunity: As EVs become more affordable, HOV lane access is a powerful, non-monetary incentive that extends benefits across all income levels. It’s a fair and visible way to reward behavior that contributes to a cleaner and more efficient Arizona.

We ask you to take proactive steps:

Work at the federal level to extend or make permanent the HOV lane exemption for AFVs under 23 U.S.C. 166.

Prepare and support Arizona state-level policy adjustments to ensure uninterrupted access for AFV owners.

Signal support to federal transportation authorities and advocate for long-term certainty in HOV policy for clean vehicles.

Arizona stands at the crossroads of growth, sustainability, and innovation. We urge you to continue a policy that reflects the best of our shared values and our commitment to a forward-looking, efficient, and healthy Arizona.