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1/20/2026
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Rep. Read legislation would create electric car database to aid state’s firefighting efforts
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STATE HOUSE — Rep. Earl A. Read III has introduced legislation that would create a database for electric cars to aid in firefighting efforts.
The bill (2026-H 7135) would direct the state fire marshal — in conjunction with the Division of Motor Vehicles — to create and maintain a vehicle identification database for electric or hybrid motor vehicles powered in whole or in part by a high-voltage lithium-ion storage battery.
“Electric vehicle fires can pose unique challenges to firefighters,” said Representative Read (D-Dist. 26, Coventry, West Warwick, Warwick), a retired Warwick police officer. “The intense heat, prolonged burn times and release of toxic gases, such as hydrogen fluoride, require specialized hazard tactics from fire departments. This legislation would create a system of communication between the DMV and fire departments, helping firefighters know where these vehicles are located.”
Electric vehicle fires can be difficult to extinguish due to the potential for hidden, delayed thermal events after crashes, creating special hazards for responders, including electric shock risks and environmental contamination, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.
Under the legislation, the office of the fire marshal would provide the DMV with the list, which would enable the division to transfer the information directly to the fire department that provides fire protection services to the address of the vehicle owner. The information would be limited to vehicle registration information; vehicle description including the make, model and year of the vehicle; and the address of the structure where the vehicle is located.
The legislation has been referred to the House Committee on State Government and Elections. A companion bill (2026-S 2181) has been introduced in the Senate by Sen. John Burke (D-Dist. 9 West Warwick).
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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