Several thoughts:

• The general concept of allowing one-passenger hybrids in HOV lanes was good, but as others have said, the perks might be better directed elsewhere. In May, I was in Northern California and saw an abundance of Prius's and some Hybrid Civics (but no Insights ). California will overfill HOV lanes unless they are very restrictive on which hybrids are allowed...
• Also in June, noticed a Prius with a Colorado emissions exempt sticker. I'd love that in Texas. Ditto to a toll tag discount, but I'm getting greedy...
• Lots of people in Dallas cut into HOV lanes alone - maybe a $1000 fine isn't enough. Tragically what has happened more than occasionally is:
  • Driver cuts into HOV lane (not supposed to do it just anywhere)
  • Driver does not see someone behind them was going 20mph faster.
  • Freeway shut down during the clean up. I've seen vehicles upside down.
• Dallas just had at least five consecutive Ozone Action days. It's a significant economic burden to the EPA's dirty list, so some kind of incentive to clean up is good. Hybrids in the HOV lane is not the best way, but I can see how more hybrids, motorcycles, etc., could reduce the Ozone Action days.

61.5mpg lifetime - 82mpg in recent months

Best Run >
www.cleanmpg.com

"fanatic" is what the lazy call the dedicated