HOV Exemption Back Up for Review in Virginia Again

Virginia gives hybrid owners an HOV exemption for traveling as a single driver in the high occupancy lanes, but the original bill lapsed many years ago.  Since that time, the exemption has come up for review and once again, their are three bills up for extending the dates on the exemption.

The current exemption lasts until July 1, 2009, but there are three bills up for review in the Committee on Transportation.
Fredericksburg.com - Bills would give another year of HOV exemption for hybrids

Vehicles with special fuel license plates that were registered in Virginia before July 1, 2006, are allowed to use High Occupancy Vehicle lanes on Interstate 95/395 at rush hour, regardless of the number of occupants.

House Bills 1932, 2299, 2476 would extend the exemption's "sunset" to 2010.

Get ready to hear from critics on how hybrids fill the lanes meant for car poolers. And get ready to hear from those who approve of the measure to point out it's the law-breakers who cause the real traffic issues.

I'd be surprised to hear any new arguments this year.