Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson Introduces AB 72 to Establish Electric Vehicle Economic Opportunity Zone in Riverside County

Assemblymember Corey Jackson introduces AB 72 to establish Riverside County's Electric Vehicle Economic Opportunity Zone, advancing manufacturing, workforce development, clean energy investment, and expanded access to jobs and training.

• Daniel Peeden
• [email protected]

Sacramento- Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jacksontoday announced the introduction of AB 72, legislation to establish an Electric Vehicle Economic Opportunity Zone (EVEOZ)in the County of Riverside, positioning the region as a center for electric vehicle manufacturing, workforce development, and clean energy investment.

The measure directs the Labor and Workforce Development partnership with Riverside County, to administer the EVEOZ and expand access to electric vehicle manufacturing jobs, education, training, and investment, with priority for residents from lower-income communities.

"Riverside County already hosts several electric vehicle companies, and this bill ensures we fully leverage that foundation," said Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson. "We must bring the right resources and incentives into our county to strengthen and grow this high-growth sector. We cannot stand idly by while other states and regions in California build these industries. If we want to remain competitive, we must create a business-friendly environment that supports innovation and delivers real economic opportunity for our communities."

AB 72 authorizes collaboration with educational institutions, electric vehicle manufacturers, and financial institutions to develop workforce programs, apprenticeships, certification pathways, and investment tools including business loans, tax credits, grants, and hiring incentives to accelerate industry growth.

The legislation supports California's goal of transitioning to a zero-emission vehicle market while ensuring that working families and underserved communities share in the economic benefits of that transition.

If enacted, AB 72 would establish Riverside County as a pilot model for future Electric Vehicle Economic Opportunity Zones across the state.