Electrification Coalition: Governor DeSantis Vetoes Total Cost of Ownership Bill, Costing Florida Taxpayers $277 Million  

Contact: Noah Barnes, Electrification Coalition
noah@electrification.org, (202) 461-2371

TALLAHASSEE—Last week, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed SB 284, a bipartisan bill that would have required the state to conduct a total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis to guide its purchase of fleet vehicles. TCO analyses have demonstrated success in helping communities save thousands of dollars.   

In fact, according to a recent study by the Electrification Coalition and Advanced Energy United, using a total cost of ownership approach for fleet procurement would save the State of Florida approximately $277 million over 15 years by fully transitioning the fleet to comparative electric alternatives, due to the significantly lower fuel and maintenance costs of electric vehicles (EVs).   

Electrification Coalition’s Senior Director of Policy Anne Blair issued the following statement:   

“It is disappointing that the governor rejected this popular and bipartisan effort to save Florida taxpayers money. Policies like SB 284 would drive fleets to utilize the best and most cost-effective technology, saving the state money and increasing Florida’s leadership in EV adoption. Instead, this veto will inhibit the State of Florida’s growth and investment in transportation electrification. EVs not only reduce our dependence on oil, thereby reducing the associated national and economic security risks, but they are also less expensive to fuel and maintain compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. This makes EVs a great option for fleets.”  

“We thank Sen. Jason Brodeur and Sen. Mike Caruso for sponsoring this bill, and we look forward to continuing to work with leaders on this issue and support a TCO approach to ensure savings for Florida taxpayers.”