Last week, Republican lawmakers in Wyoming proposed an ambitious ban that would prevent the sale of electric vehicles (EVs) by 2035. The main reasoning behind the proposed legislation is to ensure that the gas and oil industry in Wyoming is not detrimentally impacted by a proliferation of EVs.

According to the bill introduced to state legislators, citizens and industries are encouraged to avoid purchasing electric vehicles before the ban takes effect due to its potential impact on Wyoming’s economy and their ability to engage in efficient inter-state commerce.

The major point of concern among these lawmakers is the amount of additional power needed to sustain charging stations for EVs, which they predict will require a massive influx of energy that surpasses what Wyoming currently has available. This issue is further exacerbated by the fact that California recently enacted legislation which requires all cars sold within its borders by 2035 be emissions-free. If put into effect, this may create a situation where EV drivers can no longer easily access charging stations while travelling across state lines – crippling their ability to use electric cars for long-distance trips.

This news comes as no surprise given Wyoming’s traditional reliance on oil and gas production as its primary source of revenue. With voter sentiment increasingly favoring renewable energy solutions over fossil fuels, it stands to reason that local legislators would feel compelled to take action against something like EVs which pose a direct threat to their traditional sources of income. However, at least one conservation group has spoken out against this proposal claiming it will worsen air quality with increased carbon dioxide emissions from gas-powered cars, something that could have serious public health implications for many residents.

Ultimately, this decision will remain with Wyoming legislators who must weigh the interests of both environmental activists and members of the oil & gas industry when deciding whether or not this proposed ban should become law. It also raises difficult questions regarding how states should handle emerging tech solutions while still protecting their most profitable industries, a debate that will likely play out in legislatures across the country in years ahead.

Here’s my simple opinion on the matter and it applies to both Wyoming and the Federal government…stop telling people what they can and can’t buy! Let them spend their own money how they see fit. If they want electric cars, they should be able to get one. If they want gas guzzlers, they should be able to have those as well. If someone needs to innovate, then innovate.