A state law mandating school districts switch to electric buses by 2035 is drawing fierce criticism from rural communities and school officials across New York, who say it is financially and logistically impossible to achieve under the current timeline.
The requirement stems from the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), which set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions. The law demands districts begin purchasing only zero-emission buses by 2027. However, initial estimates suggest the conversion will cost between $8 billion and $15.25 billion—excluding the necessary upgrades to charging infrastructure and facilities.
Many rural districts, already struggling with tight budgets, argue they cannot fund such massive expenditures without significant increases in property taxes. “Residents and taxpayers are making it clear this isn’t feasible,” a recent statement from the Assembly Minority Conference noted. Numerous districts have rejected proposals for new bus purchases ahead of the looming mandate.
Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R-Corning) has been a vocal opponent of the measure. Last year, he introduced legislation to delay the transition until 2045 or until all state agencies convert their own fleets to electric first. “Why are schools being made the test subjects for this experiment?” Palmesano asked.
Another legislative effort led by Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R-Mohawk Valley) and Sen. Joseph Griffo (R-Rome) would allow districts to apply for an opt-out waiver through the State Education Department. Proponents say this would give schools the flexibility to adapt at their own pace, acknowledging that not every district can make the switch without crippling financial consequences.
Critics also raised safety and reliability concerns, pointing to incidents like a recent electric bus fire in Massachusetts. The limited range of many electric buses, particularly in rural areas where students often live far from school, poses another challenge.
“We all want a healthier environment,” said one advocate for repealing the mandate. “But this is asking too much too soon without any common-sense consideration for the reality on the ground.”
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