Rhode Island Passes Law For Electric Vehicle Database

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island has passed a law to create an electric vehicle database.

The legislation was introduced by state Rep. Earl A. Read III, Coventry, West Warwick and Warwick, and state Sen. John Burke, D-Dist. 9 West Warwick, to aid in firefighting efforts.

The new law "directs the state fire marshal — in conjunction with the Division of Motor Vehicles — to create and maintain a vehicle identification database for electric or hybrid motor vehicles powered in whole or in part by a high-voltage lithium-ion storage battery," according to a media release.

“Electric vehicle fires can pose unique challenges to firefighters,” Read said in the release.

“The intense heat, prolonged burn times and release of toxic gases, such as hydrogen fluoride, require specialized hazard tactics from fire departments," Read said. "This legislation would create a system of communication between the DMV and fire departments, helping firefighters know where these vehicles are located.”

Electric vehicle fires can pose problems to firefighters, according to the release.

“These vehicles have seen a steady increase in use and popularity over the past two decades,” Burke said in the release.

“Because of the dangers involved, firefighters are at significant risk of injury," Burke said. "While they are working diligently to understand the best practices in managing these types of fires, it’s up to us to help them by letting them know exactly where these vehicles may be.”

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