The push for cleaner transportation has gained momentum across the United States, with many states preparing to ban the sale of gas-fueled cars. This move aims to slash carbon emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and fast-track electric vehicle adoption. Here are 12 U.S. states that are planning to implement this ban.
California
California is at the forefront of the shift to zero-emission transportation with a pioneering policy prohibiting the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles starting in 2035. Through Executive Order N-79-20 and regulations set by the California Air Resources Board, the state aims to lower air pollution and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
While existing gas vehicles can still be owned and sold, automakers will have to focus on electric and hybrid models. This ambitious shift hopes to reshape the automotive industry and set a precedent for other states.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts has aligned with California’s move to phase out gas-powered vehicles. Governor Charlie Baker signed the 2022 climate change law (Ch-179 & Section 46), setting a deadline of January 2035 for banning the sale of new gas-powered cars.
The policy includes a trigger mechanism that requires Massachusetts to follow California’s lead in implementing zero-emission vehicle regulations. While the law ensures the transition to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection is responsible for drafting specific regulations to enforce the ban.
Maryland
Maryland has pledged to phase out the sale of new gas-powered vehicles by 2035, joining several states in adopting California’s Advanced Clean Cars II regulations. Governor Wes Moore announced this initiative in March 2023, emphasizing its role in improving air quality and addressing climate change.
The transition will save the state nearly $40 million annually by reducing health-related productivity losses. Maryland’s strategy includes expanding charging infrastructure and offering incentives to boost electric vehicle adoption, reinforcing its dedication to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
New Jersey
New Jersey has committed to banning the sale of new gas-powered motor vehicles by 2035 as part of its clean energy transition. In November 2023, officials announced the adoption of the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which sets annual zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) requirements for manufacturers while maintaining flexibility for industry investments in charging infrastructure.
Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the state’s leadership in climate action, accelerating the goal of a fully clean-energy future from 2050 to 2035. This move aligns New Jersey with other states using Section 177 of the Clean Air Act to promote environmental sustainability.
New York
In a decisive move toward cleaner transportation, New York has committed to ending the sale of gas-powered vehicles by 2035. Governor Kathy Hochul initiated this transition in September 2022, pushing forward legislation that aligns with California’s emissions standards and the federal Clean Air Act.
The state has set ambitious targets, requiring 35% of new car sales to be zero-emission by 2026 and 68% by 2030, leading to a complete shift by 2035. To support this effort, financial incentives and investments in charging infrastructure will ensure a smooth transition to electric vehicles, reinforcing New York’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
Washington
Washington State has set ambitious goals for reducing gas-powered vehicle sales, aiming for a complete transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). While the legislature established a 2030 target to phase out new gas-powered vehicle sales, the Washington Department of Ecology proposed regulations mandating 100% ZEVs for light-duty cars and trucks by 2035.
Governor Jay Inslee emphasized the state’s readiness for an electric future, reinforcing plans to adopt California’s standards, introduce ZEV incentives, and expand charging infrastructure. Washington’s proactive stance highlights its leadership in sustainability and climate action.
Vermont
Vermont has set its sights on cleaner transportation by mandating that all new vehicle sales in the state be zero-emission by 2035. In November 2022, lawmakers approved the Advanced Clean Cars II regulations, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainability efforts.
To facilitate this shift, Vermont is investing in EV infrastructure and offering consumer incentives. While challenges remain for heavier-duty vehicles, state officials remain committed to a greener, healthier future through progressive environmental policies.
Rhode Island
In May 2023, Rhode Island took a decisive step toward cleaner air by adopting the Advanced Clean Cars II regulations. The state aims to phase out gas-powered vehicle sales by 2035, aligning with Section 177 of the Clean Air Act.
Governor Dan McKee underscored the importance of tackling transportation emissions to meet climate mandates and promote environmental justice. With projections showing a steady decline in carbon output from light-duty vehicles and trucks, Rhode Island’s policy strengthens its commitment to a greener, healthier future.
Oregon
Oregon is advancing its clean transportation agenda by adopting the Advanced Clean Cars II regulations, aligning with California’s plan to phase out gas-powered vehicle sales by 2035. The Environmental Quality Commission finalized the decision in December 2022, setting ambitious targets—35% of new cars to be zero-emission by 2026, rising to 100% by 2035.
The state also promotes equity in the transition, ensuring all communities have access to cleaner transportation options. Oregon’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Program, offering up to $7,500 per vehicle, supports this shift alongside investments in charging infrastructure, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Delaware
Delaware has joined the movement toward banning gas-powered vehicles, following California’s emissions standards. In April 2023, the state’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, led by Secretary Shawn Garvin, finalized regulations to align with Section 177 of the Clean Air Act.
This Low Emission Vehicle program update supports Delaware’s goal of reducing air pollution and encouraging the transition to zero-emission vehicles. Key initiatives include investments in charging infrastructure and consumer incentives, positioning the state as a strong advocate for environmental sustainability and cleaner transportation.
New Mexico
New Mexico is taking steps to improve air quality by setting annual targets for zero-emission vehicle sales. While the state has not endorsed a full ban on gas-powered cars by 2035, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced in July 2023 that New Mexico will adopt portions of the Advanced Clean Cars II rule.
The regulations require automakers to deliver cleaner vehicles to reduce smog-forming particulate emissions and nitrogen oxides. These efforts could cut over 76 million metric tons of CO2 emissions if fully implemented, supporting cleaner air and sustainable transportation.
Colorado
Colorado is prioritizing electric vehicle adoption while stopping short of banning gas-powered cars. In March 2023, Governor Jared Polis announced the Colorado Electric Vehicle Plan, aiming for EVs to make up 80% of new car sales by 2032—up from just over 10% in 2022.
While the state has historically aligned with California’s zero-emission policies, Polis has rejected an outright ban, instead focusing on affordability, infrastructure, and incentives to accelerate EV adoption. Colorado’s approach emphasizes practicality and consumer choice in transitioning to cleaner transportation.
