Commerce outlines smaller round‑two EV instant rebate; funding limited to used cars through June 2027

Steven Hershkowitz of the Department of Commerce reviewed lessons from round 1 of the state’s EV instant‑rebate program and outlined initial design parameters for round 2.

Round 1 (fall 2024) distributed more than $46 million in rebates from a $50 million appropriation and featured strong dealer participation, high customer satisfaction and rapid deployment of funds. Hershkowitz said round 2 is smaller: “This time, we have $5,000,000,” and the program will incur higher relative administrative costs because of scale.

Because of how the recent appropriation was coded, Commerce staff said, funding available at launch through June 2027 would only be available for used‑EV rebates. Hershkowitz described program objectives that emphasize secondary adoption effects—how rebates can increase access beyond direct recipients—and noted Commerce is conducting market research, engaging potential implementation partners and running an RFP to hire a third‑party administrator.

Commerce is targeting a public launch in March–April 2027 after contractor selection and final program design. Council members were invited to provide feedback on objectives and design choices to maximize equity, cost‑effectiveness and program credibility.

No formal motion or vote occurred; staff said they will continue outreach and present final program materials when the third‑party administrator is selected.