S.379 – would create a regulatory loophole for the manufacturers of electric. The bill would allow electric vehicle producers to sell directly to the individual customers, while the manufacturers of all other cars are forced to sell through licensed car dealerships.

The exemption of electric cars from this rule is a legislative attempt to give electric cars an unfair market advantage in the market. If the legislature wants electric cars to be more affordable, they should remove this regulation for conventional vehicles as well, in order to not show preference for one industry over another distorting the market.

It is a gross abuse of power to use the force of law as an economic development tool to incentivize a particular industry

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.