Assemblyman Steve Hawley has expressed strong criticism of Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent veto of a bipartisan bill focused on emergency response training for electric vehicle (EV) fires. The legislation, which had passed both chambers of the state Legislature with significant support, would have required New York to develop specialized training for first responders addressing EV-related incidents.
Hawley argued that the bill was designed to provide firefighters and emergency personnel with the knowledge and tools needed to respond safely to new hazards associated with the growing number of electric vehicles in the state. “This was a commonsense, bipartisan measure that put safety first,” said Hawley. “Our firefighters and first responders are already putting their lives on the line every day. Denying them the training and resources they need to handle new dangers from electric vehicles is unacceptable.”
Governor Hochul explained her decision by citing concerns over costs not accounted for in the current budget, suggesting that such a program should be considered during future budget discussions. However, Hawley contended that this approach fails to recognize the immediate needs faced by fire departments outside urban areas.
“The governor is spending billions on green energy mandates but can’t find the resources to protect the men and women responding to EV fires?” Hawley said. “The government’s priorities are completely upside down. If the state insists on accelerating EV adoption, it has a responsibility to make sure our emergency responders are fully prepared.”
As a Life Member of Stafford Volunteer Fire Department and long-time supporter of first responders, Hawley pledged continued advocacy for this issue. “I’ll keep fighting to make sure this legislation gets across the finish line,” he added. “This isn’t about politics — it’s about protecting lives.”
