Requires the state fire administrator to make available a specialized electric vehicle emergency response training program to provide training to individuals responsible for providing emergency response and recovery following incidents involving electric vehicles; defines emergency medical services agency.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A247
SPONSOR: Eachus TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to the establishment of a
specialized electric vehicle emergency response training program
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL::
Requires the state fire administrator to make available a specialized
electric vehicle emergency response training program.
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS::
Section 1: Directs the state fire administrator to make available a
specialized electric vehicle emergency response training program for
first responders; Requires the state fire administrator to notify fire
departments, police departments, EMS agencies, and tow operators of the
availability of the training.
Section 2: Sets effective date.
JUSTIFICATION:
There are key differences between traditional fuel vehicles and electric
vehicles. Electric vehicles have different batteries, computers, and
wiring than traditional fuel vehicles, meaning accidents involving elec-
tric vehicles may need to be handled differently by first responders.
For example, on some electric vehicles, the lithium-ion battery must be
completely disconnected before it is safe to use hydraulic rescue tools,
such as the "jaws of life". Another example is that due to the kind of
batteries that many electric vehicles use, EV fires can burn for hours
and require thousands of gallons of water to put out. Without the know-
ledge of the differences between vehicles, first responders could be
putting their own lives at greater risk than is needed.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY::
2023-24
A6517-A: Passed Assembly, S6723-A: Referred to Finance
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS::
To be determined.
EFFECTIVE DATE::
This act shall take effect immediately.
