Washington, D.C. – The Trump administration has made the decision to halt a $5 billion electric vehicle charging station program, creating obstacles for the environmental movement since the president’s return to the White House. In a memo sent to state transportation directors by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on Thursday, states were instructed to refrain from using any funds designated for them under the Biden administration’s national electric vehicle infrastructure (NEVI) program. This move signifies a shift in policy under the new leadership at the Department of Transportation, calling for a review of the NEVI Formula Program.
Emily Biondi, the FHWA’s associate administrator for planning, environment, and realty, explained in the memo that all guidance related to the NEVI Formula Program is being rescinded until further notice. The suspension of the approval of state electric vehicle infrastructure deployment plans is effective immediately, preventing new obligations from being made under the program. However, reimbursements for existing obligations related to the design and construction of charging stations will still be allowed during this transition period.
The NEVI program, as outlined on the energy department’s website, aims to assist states in strategically placing EV chargers. Funding is available to cover up to 80% of eligible project costs, including the purchase, installation, and connection of chargers, as well as their operation, maintenance, and data sharing. Politico has reported that the FHWA has already taken down multiple web pages providing information on the NEVI program, causing concern among supporters of electric vehicles.
Andrew Rogers, a former deputy FHWA administrator under the Biden administration, has criticized the memo for potentially disregarding legal constraints and court orders. He pointed out that the decision may be in violation of the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, which places limits on the withholding of congressionally approved funding. Despite these challenges, over 40 states have initiated solicitations for EV charging projects, showing a strong interest in expanding electric vehicle infrastructure across the country.
Former President Trump’s outspoken opposition to electric vehicles has influenced policies under his administration, including the recent revocation of a 2021 Biden-era order promoting the sale of electric vehicles. This action is seen as a significant setback for the EV industry, which has been gaining momentum in recent years. The future of electric vehicle infrastructure in the U.S. remains uncertain as the administration continues to make changes to existing programs and regulations.