A proposed South Carolina bill allowing electric vehicle manufacturers to sell their vehicles directly to consumers faces uncertainty after a legislative hearing at the State House on Wednesday. The House Labor, Commerce and Industry subcommittee voted to adjourn debate on the bill, with limited discussion among members.
Dealership owners across the state opposed the bill, while supporters from Scout Motors and other electric vehicle companies spoke in favor of it. One subcommittee member described the bill as “dead” in its current form, but Scout Motors views the proposal as being “paused.”
The bill aims to modernize the car-buying experience in South Carolina by changing state law. However, this would require a significant shift for taxpayers who will have to purchase vehicles directly from manufacturers unless the law changes.
Automotive dealerships with deep-pocketed lobbies generally oppose direct-sales efforts, despite not speaking publicly about the bill. The subcommittee heard testimony from nine people on Wednesday, including five in favor of the bill and four opposed, before adjourning further debate.
Source: https://www.wistv.com/2025/02/12/controversial-sc-electric-vehicle-bill-life-support-after-legislative-hearing