MN lawmakers consider adding charging stations

A bill being floated this legislative session would place electric vehicle charging stations at highway rest areas around Minnesota.

Supporters say there are more than 1,200 charging stations – but there are gaps in the network especially along corridors in Greater Minnesota.

Bill sponsor Representative Todd Lippert says those owning or thinking about buying an electric vehicle need to know they can charge them as they travel across the state.

MnDOT’s Erik Rudeen says electric vehicles are still a small percentage of vehicles sold – but they are gaining in popularity.

The goal is for federal dollars to support the private sector to build out this network.  The bill has been laid over by the House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee for possible inclusion in an omnibus bill.