Thanks for posting, @TXjak! Who's up for some coordinated lobbying? Dr. Shaw's bio is here: Bryan W. Shaw, Ph.D., P.E. - TCEQ - www.tceq.texas.gov (to understand who you are dealing with). I think the important points to emphasize are: (1) Teslas improve air quality just as much as other EVs, and (2) we pay state tax equivalent to that paid by other EV purchasers. Background: SB 1731 (see the "Enrolled" version of the Bill here: Texas Legislature Online - 85(R) Text for SB 1731, Subchapter D, Section 386.154(d) etc. starting on page 15), which re-establishes the rebate program, does not require qualifying new electric vehicles to be sold by dealerships. It merely requires the car to be first registered in Texas. The rebate for a leased vehicle is prorated over a three year period. The rebate is limited to the first 2,000 qualified applicants, beginning on a date that is yet to be determined. The proposed rules (prior to the amendment by Commissioner Shaw) are linked in TXjak's post # 97.
I apologize for the cross-post, but in case you missed it, the Texas EV rebate of $2,500 is in the rule-making process with (I think) a decent chance of success if we all make our views known: Your Action Requested re: $2500 TX EV Grant (December 11, 2017)
We'll have a few driving in from Houston to provide in person support at the hearing. Let's hope they don't pull a dirty trick (again) and change the time at the last minute.
I've been googling to no avail I heard that Texas Lawmaker wanted to get rid of front License Plates this year. Did they pass the law?
I do not believe that was passed. I think they passed the electronic plate one though. With the videos of people getting caught by TeslaCam repeater cameras in parking lot accidents - I think I like front plates.
Any change on Texas laws resulting from the Austin factory decision today? Please tell me its not still not legal to buy in Texas.
Actually it's shorter than that-- 140 day sessions unless a special session is called. Presumably part of the deal was the leadership would support a change in the law protecting car dealerships. I'm looking at you, Lt. Gov. Patrick.
With the exception of the Texas EV credit, I’m not sure the current situation really hurts Tesla. I’d bet they also tossed a bone to the dealers to keep the money coming. time will tell. P.s. Group One Automotive dealers are terrible.