On Sept. 20, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a six-bill package designed to speed EV charger deployment and expand access—particularly for renters and residents of mixed-use properties. Key measures reduce permitting barriers and fees (AB 1820), confirm streamlined permitting also covers trenching, electrical upgrades, solar canopies and battery storage (SB 1283), and allow some manufacturer-tested public chargers to begin operating sooner (SB 969). Additional bills improve transparency for truck incentives (SB 1213), require clearer EV battery disclosures for consumers (SB 615), and enhance charging access for homeowners association residents (SB 1267).
California Fast-Tracks EV Charging: Newsom Signs Six-Bill Package To Expand Access For Renters
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On Sept. 20, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a six-bill legislative package designed to speed deployment of electric-vehicle (EV) chargers, expand consumer protections, and improve access to charging where it’s been hardest to find—especially for apartment residents, mixed-use developments and communities without private driveways.
According to a statement from the governor’s office, the laws target common obstacles that slow EV adoption: lengthy permitting processes, limited charging where people live, and unclear information about incentives and batteries. The administration framed the package as a way to cut red tape, accelerate infrastructure deployment and make electric transportation more reliable and affordable for Californians.
What the Bills Do
AB 1820 reduces permitting barriers and some fees for charger projects at apartment complexes and mixed-use developments, making it easier and less costly to add shared or resident chargers.
SB 1283 clarifies that California’s streamlined permitting for EV chargers also applies to related work—such as trenching, electrical service upgrades, rooftop or canopy solar arrays and battery storage—helping to avoid separate approvals that can delay projects.
SB 969 updates an older inspection regime so certain manufacturer-tested public chargers can enter service sooner, shortening the gap between installation and public operation.
SB 1213 increases transparency around state incentives tied to zero-emission trucks, making program details clearer for fleet operators and buyers.
SB 615 requires clearer consumer information about EV batteries, helping buyers compare vehicles using standardized battery details and capacity disclosures.
SB 1267 aims to improve charging access for residents living in homeowner associations (HOAs), addressing another common barrier for people without private off-street parking.
Why It Matters
Access to convenient, affordable charging is often the deciding factor in whether someone can realistically own an EV. By streamlining permitting and clarifying what’s covered, the package targets residents who lack private garages or driveways and helps communities deploy chargers faster.
“These laws cut red tape, accelerate the infrastructure we need, and build a safer, more reliable, and more affordable future, one that is powered by California innovation, not dictated by global oil markets,” Gov. Newsom said in the announcement.
Supporters say wider charging access and clearer information can lower household transportation costs, improve air quality and reduce exposure to volatile oil prices that affect fuel and goods. The bills focus primarily on enabling infrastructure—permitting, inspections and related construction—while also improving transparency for truck incentives and battery information for consumers.
Related Local Developments
Other stories highlight efforts across cities and private operators to expand charging access, from a new charging center in Santa Ana to curbside charger pilots in Boston and growing demand for apartment charging nationwide.
Source: Office of the Governor of California press release.
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