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FLORIDA - Florida has officially ended its HOV lane program, eliminating carpool and clean vehicle lane privileges, as part of a statewide transportation overhaul.
Section 316.0741 was officially removed from state law after Senate Bill 1662 went into effect on July 1st.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has stopped issuing and renewing the green decals that allowed solo drivers of hybrids and low-emission vehicles to access high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes.
According to state officials, any decal issued before June 30th remains valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
After that, all previously designated HOV lanes will function as standard travel lanes.
Law enforcement officers are no longer authorized to cite drivers for riding alone in those lanes.
Transportation experts say the repeal aligns with Governor Ron DeSantis’ broader plan to modernize Florida’s infrastructure.
That includes investing in emergency freight routes, bridge repairs, and transportation research while eliminating programs deemed outdated.
Although federal regulations still define HOV lanes, Florida has withdrawn from enforcement, making it one of the few states to do so.
Experts warn the shift could increase congestion, while environmental groups urge lawmakers to introduce new incentives for clean vehicles.