HB 2955 sets seasonal fuel standards for gasoline sold in Maricopa County (Arizona's most populous county, exceeding 1.2 million residents) and other areas designated as "Area A." From March 31 to October 31, gasoline must meet ASTM D4814 standards with specific vapor pressure limits. From November 1 to March 31, gasoline must comply with California's Phase 2 reformulated gasoline standards and the same vapor pressure limits. The bill also establishes a 7-day review process for fuel suppliers to request temporary exemptions during ethanol or gasoline supply shortages, requiring proof of imminent shortages and state agency approval.
HB 2367 clarifies that certain low-speed neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) meeting federal safety standards (49 CFR §571.500) and designed for 20 mph or less are excluded from Arizona's standard vehicle classification for registration. This specifically exempts these vehicles from the typical vehicle license tax rules that apply to other alternative-fuel vehicles, meaning owners won't pay the standard $4-$5 annual tax. The bill directly affects owners of qualifying NEVs, such as neighborhood electric shuttles or low-speed electric vehicles without a VIN. It updates Arizona law to define these vehicles separately, ensuring they aren't subject to standard vehicle registration requirements.
HB 2106 clarifies how Arizona counties can levy a transportation excise tax approved by voters. It sets a maximum tax rate (up to 20% of existing business tax rates) and specifies where collected revenue must go: counties with over 400,000 residents deposit funds into a regional transportation fund, while smaller counties can choose between that fund or a public transportation authority fund. The tax applies to business transactions, electricity, and natural gas use, and must fund transportation projects in the county. This bill modifies existing tax collection rules but does not create new taxes - only defines how existing voter-approved county taxes operate.
