From the Senate President's office:

Tapp and Seum Prefile Legislation Allowing Low-Speed Electric Vehicles on Kentucky Byways

(FRANKFORT) State Senators Gary Tapp (R-Waddy) and Dan Seum (R-Louisville) pre-filed legislation today to allow low-speed electric vehicles to be driven on some Kentucky roadways. The Senate bill (BR 28) permits owners of three-wheeled licensed vehicles to drive their cars on streets and roadways with speed limits up to 45 miles an hour. The cars meet federal safety standards.

"We've been talking a long time about whether we in the General Assembly can do something to address the rising costs of fuel. Electric cars can be a part of an overall comprehensive energy policy designed to reduce our dependence on oil and develop more efficient transportation methods," said Sen. Tapp. "This legislation is a proactive attempt to provide more choices for consumers and to promote electric vehicle manufacturing here in Kentucky. We want Kentucky to play a major role as we move forward."

Integrity Manufacturing, in Bullitt County, is in negotiations to become a potential distributor for the Zap electric car. BR 28 is aimed at vehicles like Zap. The plant is located at 300 Highway 44 East, Shepherdsville, Kentucky.

"This legislation lays the groundwork for future investment in and development of transportation alternatives," continued Sen. Dan Seum. "With gas at $4 a gallon, people are looking for alternatives to traditional vehicles and electric cars are one option that's becoming more viable."

The Interim Joint Committee on Economic Development and Tourism meeting Thursday, July 17, at 1:00pm in Annex Room 154 will feature a discussion on three-wheeled electric vehicles. Media members will be provided with the opportunity to test drive the Zap vehicles after the meeting.