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6/24/2026
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Assembly enacts law to create electric car database to aid state’s firefighting efforts
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STATE HOUSE — Legislation introduced by Rep. Earl A. Read III and Sen. John Burke to create a database for electric cars to aid in firefighting efforts has been signed into law.
The law (2026-H 7135A, 2026-S 2181A) directs 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.
“These vehicles have seen a steady increase in use and popularity over the past two decades,” said Senator Burke (D-Dist. 9 West Warwick). “Because of the dangers involved, firefighters are at significant risk of injury. While they are working diligently to understand the best practices in managing these types of fires, it’s up to us to help them by letting them know exactly where these vehicles may be.”
Under the new law, the DMV will transfer the information directly to the fire department that provides fire protection services to the address of the vehicle owner. The information will be limited to vehicle description, including the make, model and year of the vehicle, and the address of the structure where the vehicle is located.
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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