A lawsuit filed in Seattle aims to restore billions designated for electric vehicle infrastructure, citing unconstitutional practices.
States Band Together to Challenge Federal Funding Freeze for EV Charging Stations
States Band Together to Challenge Federal Funding Freeze for EV Charging Stations
A coalition, led by three states, takes legal action against the administration over blocked funds.
A coalition of three states—Washington, Colorado, and California—has initiated a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming it is unlawfully withholding billions of dollars designated for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The lawsuit, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, puts forth allegations that the government has frozen funds allocated by Congress through the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, which earmarked $5 billion to enhance charging stations across the country.
According to the research firm Atlas Public Policy, only 71 charging stations have been developed so far, and many more are pending due to federal inaction. The plaintiffs argue that the funding freeze not only deprives states of essential resources but also risks stifling the burgeoning electric vehicle industry during a pivotal growth phase.
The issue escalated following the release of the White House's recent budget proposal, which sought to eliminate financing for specific electric vehicle programs, a move President Trump previously signaled through an executive order. However, the lawsuit highlights that complete withdrawal of funds would necessitate Congressional approval, which has not occurred.
California's Attorney General Rob Bonta criticized the administration, claiming, “The president continues his unconstitutional attempts to withhold funding that Congress appropriated to programs he dislikes.” He also emphasized the importance of the federal investment, noting that nearly two million zero-emission vehicles have been sold in California alone. The state was counting on approximately $384 million from federal funds to bolster its charging stations, highlighting the urgent need for resolution amidst growing concerns over air pollution and environmental standards.
According to the research firm Atlas Public Policy, only 71 charging stations have been developed so far, and many more are pending due to federal inaction. The plaintiffs argue that the funding freeze not only deprives states of essential resources but also risks stifling the burgeoning electric vehicle industry during a pivotal growth phase.
The issue escalated following the release of the White House's recent budget proposal, which sought to eliminate financing for specific electric vehicle programs, a move President Trump previously signaled through an executive order. However, the lawsuit highlights that complete withdrawal of funds would necessitate Congressional approval, which has not occurred.
California's Attorney General Rob Bonta criticized the administration, claiming, “The president continues his unconstitutional attempts to withhold funding that Congress appropriated to programs he dislikes.” He also emphasized the importance of the federal investment, noting that nearly two million zero-emission vehicles have been sold in California alone. The state was counting on approximately $384 million from federal funds to bolster its charging stations, highlighting the urgent need for resolution amidst growing concerns over air pollution and environmental standards.
