New Jersey lawmakers to vote on Tesla sales

New Jersey lawmakers are scheduled to vote on a bill that would allow zero-emission carmakers to sell directly to consumers.

The bill backed by environmentalists would allow Tesla to resume sales in New Jersey. It’s up for a vote in the Assembly on Monday.

The state Motor Vehicle Commissioner earlier this year approved regulations that require new-car dealers to have franchise agreements, effectively banning Tesla’s business model.

The Senate has not yet considered the direct-to-consumers bill.

Also Tuesday, the Assembly is scheduled to vote on a bill that would change the laws for franchises for traditional car dealers. Car dealers favor the changes while manufacturers oppose them.

Critics have said that bill is being considered to keep car dealers from opposing the direct sales of electric cars.