H.R.2188 - Comparison of Sustainable Transportation Act; COST Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2188, also known as the Comparison of Sustainable Transportation Act or COST Act, mandates the Comptroller General to analyze the costs of converting the federal fleet to electric and flex-fuel vehicles. It also requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct a lifecycle analysis of greenhouse gas emissions from conventional gasoline, E85 capable flex-fuel, and battery electric vehicles. The bill aims to provide data-driven insights into the economic and environmental implications of transitioning the federal vehicle fleet.
Expected Effects
The bill will lead to a comprehensive cost analysis of converting the federal fleet to electric and flex-fuel vehicles. Furthermore, it will provide a lifecycle emissions analysis of different vehicle types. This information could influence future policy decisions regarding federal vehicle procurement and energy strategies.
Potential Benefits
- Provides data for informed decision-making on fleet vehicle transitions.
- Encourages consideration of both economic and environmental factors.
- Promotes transparency through public reporting of cost analyses.
- Supports the development and adoption of sustainable transportation technologies.
- Could lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions from the federal fleet.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The analysis may reveal high costs associated with transitioning to electric or flex-fuel vehicles.
- The focus on specific technologies might overlook other potential solutions.
- The one-year deadline for the analyses may be insufficient for thorough research.
- The results of the analysis could be used to justify delaying or halting the transition to more sustainable vehicles.
- The bill does not mandate any action based on the analyses, potentially limiting its impact.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by aiming to promote informed decision-making regarding government resources and environmental impact. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to federal property (Article I, Section 8) and interstate commerce, which can include regulations related to vehicle emissions and energy use. The requirement for reports to be submitted to relevant committees aligns with Congress's oversight function.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).