05-05-2025
N.Y. lawmakers propose rebates for electric landscaping equipment
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – As the grass begins to grow, many folks statewide are filling up the gas tanks on their traditional lawn mowers to trim it down. However, some state lawmakers are encouraging folks to consider a different way to cut the lawn.
State Senate Bill S5358A would incentivize New Yorkers who choose to purchase electric-powered landscaping equipment. This includes but is not limited to lawn mowers, weed whackers and chain saws. The bill passed in the Senate and has been sent to the Assembly for review.
If passed, the Electric Landscaping Equipment Rebate Program would be established, offering folks up to 70% off the purchase price of a piece of equipment with certain restrictions.
Brian Halligan, who has an electric lawn mower and lives in Rochester, shared what his experience has been like using it to cut his grass.
'This is the first time i'm mowing this season, last season it worked really well for me,' Halligan said. 'I didn't have any issues with battery power.'
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Floor Manager at Weider Ace Hardware of Perinton Jack Hyla explained how he's seen more folks interested in electric outdoor equipment this year than ever before.
'Today's electric mowers are really as powerful as any gas one on the market,' Hyla said. 'It's a lot less maintenance. You don't have to worry about spark plugs, buying gas, changing the oil, all that stuff.'
Halligan said he made the decision to switch given the recent discussion about electric outdoor equipment becoming the new normal in New York.
'It just seemed like this is the future, so might as well get on board,' Halligan said.
The full senate bill can be found here.
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