Washington State is taking a bold step to combat rising property crimes targeting electric vehicle (EV) chargers with the introduction of Senate Bill 5746. Proposed on February 24, 2025, this legislation aims to establish an advisory committee dedicated to addressing the alarming trend of theft and vandalism affecting EV charging infrastructure across the state.

The bill outlines the formation of a diverse advisory committee, comprising representatives from local governments, power utilities, community advocacy groups, and experts in the electric vehicle charging industry. This committee will be tasked with providing guidance on strategies to reduce property crimes related to EV chargers, responding to legislative inquiries, and submitting annual reports detailing their findings and recommendations.

Notably, the bill emphasizes inclusivity, mandating that committee members reflect Washington's geographic, racial, and ethnic diversity, particularly focusing on historically marginalized communities. This approach aims to ensure that the voices of those most affected by these crimes are heard and considered in the decision-making process.

As electric vehicle adoption continues to grow, so does the need for secure charging infrastructure. The bill's proponents argue that without effective measures, the rise in property crimes could undermine public confidence in EV technology and hinder the state's environmental goals. Critics, however, may question the bill's effectiveness and the allocation of resources to address these issues.

The advisory committee is expected to convene its first meeting by November 1, 2025, with a mandate to operate until December 31, 2030. As Washington navigates the complexities of expanding its electric vehicle infrastructure, the outcomes of this bill could have significant implications for both the state's economy and its commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.