(a) Applicability. This section applies to the procurement of passenger vehicles; multi-purpose passenger vehicles; and trucks with a load capacity of 3/4 ton or less and a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less.
(b) Definitions. In this section, the following words have the meanings indicated.
(1) “Hybrid vehicle” means a vehicle using two different forms of power, such as an electric motor and an internal combustion engine or an electric motor with a battery and fuel cells for energy storage.
(2) “Zero-emission vehicle” has the meaning stated in § 23-206.4 of the Transportation Article of the State Code.
(c) Replacement of County vehicles.
(1) Beginning on February 28, 2021, as County-owned or leased internal combustion engine vehicles require replacement or as the County adds vehicles to its fleet, the Office of Central Services shall procure hybrid vehicles or zero-emission vehicles so long as the purchasing agent determines that the vehicles meet the financial, operational, and technological needs of the using agencies.
(2) In fiscal year 2035, and in each year thereafter, all newly procured County vehicles subject to this section shall be zero-emission vehicles so long as the purchasing agent determines that the vehicles meet the financial, operational, and technological needs of the using agencies.
(3) When the purchasing agent determines that hybrid or zero-emission vehicles do not meet the financial, operational, or technological needs of the using agencies, the purchasing agent shall purchase or lease vehicles with the lowest emissions that meet the financial, operational, and technological needs of the using agencies.
(4) By August 31 of each year, the purchasing agent shall submit to the County Executive and the County Council a report that describes procurements made under this section during the preceding fiscal year.
(d) Plan required. By the end of fiscal year 2025, the Office of Central Services shall complete a plan that outlines the long-term infrastructure, charging, and maintenance needs, as well as any staff, training, equipment, or contracted resources necessary to meet the requirements of subsection (c).
(Bill No. 106-20; Bill No. 72-21)