E-Bike Voucher Information
We know some of what will go into Connecticut’s new e-bike voucher program, but much of remains a mystery for the near future. Read more below!
The Letter of the Law
In May 2022, Connecticut passed An Act Concerning the Connecticut Clean Air Act. The Act requires the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection to create a rebate or voucher program for residents of the state who purchase an E-Bike. The voucher program is to be deployed in “late winter/early spring”.
While many details about the voucher program remain unclear, we DO know the following information. Vouchers will:
Be at least $500
Be limited to “an eligible e-bike” with MSRP of $3,000 or less
Be designed to maximize air quality benefits associated with e-bikes
Be provided with priority to two groups
Members of environmental justice communities
Those with household incomes under 300% of the federal poverty level. That means $40,770 for a household of 1, $54,390 for a household of 2, and $69,090 for a household of 3- see more here.
Residents who receive other state or federal assistance may be prioritized as well.
What we still don’t know
Several unknowns persist about the voucher program.
Will it be rolled out as soon as March or as late as May and beyond?
Will only one e-bike be eligible, or will the voucher apply to multiple e-bikes under $3,000?
Will the voucher only be usable in bike shops or will online voucher support be allowed as well?
Will the program be limited to Connecticut-manufactured e-bikes?
What will the exact amount of vouchers be, and will differing voucher amounts be given to different people?
Check out the blog section of this site for further updates on the program, and feel free to subscribe to stay in the loop for any program updates.