As a native Vermonter, I’ve been watching the small northern state’s EV adoption with great interest. I previously argued Vermont has the right idea with its EV fast charger locations because the chargers located by scenic landmarks and in walkable downtowns could make roadtrips by EV more enjoyable than rest area surfing in an ICE car.

I also reported on Vermont doubling its EV fleet in two years. It took five years for Vermonters to buy the state’s first 5,000 EVs. They purchased another 5,185 in 2024 alone. The state’s charger placement and tax incentives are obviously working.

Governor Phil Scott says, “I continue to believe we should be incentivizing Vermonters to transition to cleaner energy options like electric vehicles.” But at the same time he signed Executive Order 04-25, pausing the state’s EV sales requirements.

The state previously adopted California’s EV mandates. This is a multi-phase plan. Every few years automakers are required to hit higher sales targets. The next phase is 35% of 2026 light-duty vehicle sales being zero-emissions models. The end goal is 100% sales of zero-emissions vehicles–by 2035. Governor Scott did not issue a new deadline, he paused the requirements altogether.

Eleven states have passed some or all of the California requirements. Some states legislate what percentage of ICE vehicles dealers can stock on their lots, but not what consumers can order. Other states have passed the early phases but not the 100% zero emissions sales in 2035 phase.

Why did Vermont have a change of heart on EV mandates?

The intriguing part of Vermont’s EV mandate reversal is that it doesn’t have a new governor. Phil Scott–a moderate Republican–pioneered the fast-charger programs and tax incentives that drove Vermont’s rapid EV adoption. He passed the California-style rules he’s now pausing.

“We have to be realistic about a pace that’s achievable. It’s clear we don’t have anywhere near enough charging infrastructure and insufficient technological advances in heavy-duty vehicles to meet current goals.”

The long and short of it is that a 35% EV sales ratio is a steep goal. Governor Scott’s not giving up his EV charge, but may be shifting changing tactics. “We have much more work to do, in order make it more convenient, faster, and more affordable to buy, maintain and charge EV’s. When we do, it’s more likely everyday Vermonters will make the switch.”

The governor’s office summed up its plan: “When it comes to transitioning to a low-carbon future, mandates are not going to be the total answer.  Using common sense and incentivizing technological advancements is necessary to overall success and this compliance flexibility is intended to reflect this reality.”

If a state with such a steep increase in EV sales is changing its tune, I expect other states to follow along soon. Just last month, Maryland Governor Wes Moore delayed his own state’s enforcement of the 35% target until the 2028 model year.