Bay State News

John Marsi, a state representative for Massachusetts' 6th Worcester District, has expressed opposition to proposed electric vehicle mandates. He cited infrastructure gaps and potential negative impacts on dealerships during an interview conducted on March 20.

"I am 100% opposed to these short-sighted mandates," said Marsi. "There is a lack of infrastructure to support the industry. The cost of the vehicles without big subsidies is an impediment. These regulations put a burden on our dealerships, which will cause them to lose money and jobs."

According to SupplyChainBrain, Massachusetts is among several states adopting California’s Advanced Clean Cars II rule. This regulation mandates that all new vehicle sales be zero-emission by 2035. The policy has sparked both support and opposition within the state. Over 100 car dealerships have signed a letter to Governor Healey expressing concerns about the electric vehicle sales mandate, citing insufficient demand and inadequate infrastructure.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are expected to remain more expensive than internal combustion engine vehicles without subsidies. Kelley Blue Book reports that the average transaction price for a new EV in January 2024 was $55,353, compared to $48,641 for all new vehicles. This price gap underscores the importance of federal and state incentives in promoting EV adoption.

Massachusetts is actively working to expand its EV infrastructure to support anticipated growth in electric vehicle usage. The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) has launched initiatives like the Ride Clean Mass Charging Hubs Program, which aims to establish 5–7 strategically located EV charging hubs across the state. These efforts align with the state's broader goal of improving access to public charging stations and supporting the transition to zero-emission vehicles.

Marsi is a degreed chemical engineer with over 25 years of experience in business management, budgeting, and leadership. He has lived in Dudley, Massachusetts, for nearly 25 years and raised two children who attended local schools. Marsi has served four terms on the Dudley Board of Selectmen, including three years as Chairman and seven as Vice Chairman. He has also participated in several local committees such as the Finance, Appropriation, and Advisory Committee; the Capital Improvement Committee; and the Executive Board of the South Worcester County Communications Center.