McCourt School alumna is charging ahead on EV adoption incentives for Washington State
Emma Wyma (MPP’23) is on a mission to clear the air. She’s leveraging her policy degree and previous experience to help spur electric car sales in her home state — especially in rural areas.
Emma Wyma (MPP’23)
As a clean transportation policy engagement specialist for the Washington State Department of Commerce, Emma Wyma (MPP’23) is the point person for the state’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Instant Rebate Program, launched in August 2024.
“We are one of the leading states in EV adoption,” said Wyma. “And these rebates will continue to incentivize a clean-energy future for all of us.”
The program will provide between 6,500 and 8,000 rebates to help low-income Washingtonians get up to $9,000 off an EV at the time of purchase or lease.
“The state funds are stackable,” she said. “They can be combined with federal tax credits, state sales tax exemptions or dealership rebates.”
Further, Washington is the first state to prioritize low-cost EV leases. While most EV models are not currently eligible for federal credits, all EV models are eligible if leased. According to the state’s Department of Commerce, Washington residents can use the federal credit to make leasing an EV as low as under $100 a month.
Price parity between gas cars and electric vehicles is on people’s radar. And Wyma is spreading the word that EVs are “so much cheaper, long-term.”
Wyma (left) and former Governor Jay Inslee (right) at an EV Incentive program event.
“Transportation is the number two expense for people making less than $80,000,” said Wyma. “That includes the cost of gas, maintenance and daily commuting.” Indeed, according to 2022 federal statistics, transportation accounts for 15% of average household spending, second only to housing.
Additionally, Wyma said charging concerns have made some people hesitant to switch to electric vehicles. Again, the state has stepped up. In February 2024, the Washington Department of Commerce announced $86 million in grants to fund 5,000 EV charging stations in multifamily properties, workplaces and public locations such as grocery stores.
“These charging ports will fill in the gaps, especially in rural areas,” she said. “And half will be installed in communities most affected by fossil fuel pollution.”
Wyma rock climbing along the Potomac River.
Understanding that resistance to EV adoption is sometimes higher in rural areas or that people in small towns may not have considered EVs, Wyma and her colleagues have partnered with community-based organizations in the eastern part of the state. In-person listening sessions help them acknowledge people’s concerns.
“Community engagement is the key,” said Wyma. “And folks are smart. They can figure out the benefits.”
Wyma’s previous experience as a political organizer for Galvanize USA — which helps to connect urban and rural women in a common cause — has been invaluable. “You must have a connection with people who may disagree with you,” she said.
The Puyallup, Washington, native said she is excited to return to her home state and make a difference. And her eye is always on the prize of a cleaner, healthier environment. “Climate action is so urgent; we don’t have time to turn it into a political issue,” said Wyma. “Air quality is not just for one political party.”