PEORIA – Thanks to State Senator Dave Koehler and other members of the General Assembly, Illinoisans who purchase electric vehicles will now be eligible to apply for a rebate.

“If it’s our goal to increase the accessibility and use of electric vehicles across the board, we have to make sure we’re including everyone in the conversation,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “By offering the same incentives for electric motorcycles that we do for other electric vehicles, we’re encouraging sustainability to an even greater population.”

The rebate program was created under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act passed by the General Assembly and signed into law in the fall of 2021. Illinois’ Electric Vehicle Rebate Fund has nearly $18 million allocated for rebates, and Illinois residents who purchase an all-electric vehicle on or after July 1, 2022, are now eligible to apply for a rebate of $4,000 each. To be eligible for a rebate, the vehicle must be exclusively powered and refueled by electricity, plugged in to charge, and licensed to drive on public roadways.

Electric motorcycles were not originally included in the legislation, but during the spring 2022 legislative session, Koehler sponsored legislation to expand CEJA and make highway-legal electric motorcycles eligible for a $1,500 electric vehicle rebate. Previously Senate Bill 2940, Public Act 102-0820 was signed into law this summer and is in full effect.

ABATE, the state’s largest motorcycle advocacy group, played a large role in drafting the legislation.

“Every step we take toward sustainability counts,” Koehler said. “But we have to make sure everyone has a chance to get on board. By ensuring affordability and accessibility, this is how we do that.”

Applications for the Illinois’ EV Rebate Program can be accessed online starting July 1. All applications must be postmarked on or before Sept. 30, 2022 to be considered. More information about the rebate program, including instructions on completing the application and answers to frequently asked questions, can be found on the EPA’s website.