ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) - New York State's electric vehicle mandate is set to go into effect in 2035. Those who maintain our local roads say they are concerned about the feasibility of making the switch, as the clock continues to tick toward the deadline. "As long as it stays a mandate, it’ s a self-fulfilling failure that’s going to occur," said Assemblymember Josh Jensen, who serves for the 134th District in the NYS Assembly. "Beginning with 2026 models, which come out in September of this year, New York State is requiring that dealers sell 35 percent of zero-emission vehicles. Is the cost worth the benefit? And what exactly are we getting for these costs? What is the emission reduction overall going to be?" said Senator Pam Helming, who represents the 54th District in NYS. James Fletcher serves as highway superintendent for the town of Canandaigua. In rural areas, he says crews are finding more challenges that go well beyond cost. "Currently, we have no ability to charge any vehicle at any rural highway facility. It's different for the cities because they don’t have to travel as far for their everyday needs. Financially, we’re stressed. Due to not only cost, but we will have to devise something with our equipment outside because insurance companies don’t want them inside due to the fact that they can burn up when a battery fails," said Fletcher. Fletcher adds that with challenges brought on by snowier winters, it's a matter of working to keep up with various demands. "One of the things they're worried about is as we see more EVs on the road, especially heavy-duty ones, is that our roads and infrastructure are not built to support the weight of these vehicles," said Assemblymember Jensen, "You're going to see critical infrastructure break down faster than they would otherwise." Lawmakers push for wine to be sold in NY grocery stores, local liquor store owners react Meanwhile, earlier this month, hundreds of highway workers from areas across New York State went to Albany to make their voices heard on CHIPS Act funding, which is used to help maintain and treat local roads and bridges. Fletcher says he is not confident towns will get the minimum amount they are asking for to meet based needs, which is at least $250 million worth. The state budget is due April 1. ...read more read less