Trump administration orders states to halt EV charging programs

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Washington Post or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The Trump administration has ordered states to halt a $5 billion EV charging program, suspending all plans approved under Biden’s administration
• A Federal Highway Administration memo directs states to stop obligations under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program until new guidelines are issued
• This move could stall the already slow rollout of fast EV chargers across highways

🔭 The context: The NEVI program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, was designed to expand the U.S. EV charging network and encourage EV adoption
• Approximately $3.3 billion had already been allocated, though states must submit invoices to access the funds
• Some states, including Rhode Island, Missouri, and Oklahoma, had already paused their EV charging plans before the memo was released

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The halt on funding could slow EV adoption by limiting charging infrastructure, making it harder for consumers to transition away from gasoline vehicles
• Without widespread and reliable charging networks, range anxiety remains a significant barrier to EV sales
• The decision also aligns with Trump’s broader rollback of clean energy policies, which could hinder emissions reductions

⏭️ What's next: Legal challenges from states and environmental groups are expected, with some experts arguing the Federal Highway Administration lacks the authority to enforce the halt
• EV manufacturers and charging companies may also face financial strain if contracts remain in limbo
• The administration’s broader stance on EV incentives and emissions regulations will further shape the market in the coming months

💬 One quote: “I don’t believe FHWA has the authority to do this.” – Loren McDonald, EV charging analyst

📈 One stat: Only 55 charging stations have been built so far under the $5 billion program, according to analytics firm Paren

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