U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has responded to legal actions taken by 16 states and the District of Columbia, which aim to block the U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT) review of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. This program, initially established under the Biden-Buttigieg administration, was designed to fund state deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Secretary Duffy criticized the current structure of NEVI as convoluted and inefficient, stating that it has hindered effective utilization. In February, he initiated a review alongside the Federal Highway Administration to address these issues.
"The Biden-Buttigieg Administration failed miserably to deliver EV chargers despite their promises," said Secretary Duffy. He emphasized his authority granted by Congress to issue guidance ensuring efficient spending and criticized California for its involvement in the lawsuit, citing its own struggles with an expensive rail project.
According to USDOT data, a significant portion of NEVI funds remains unspent three and a half years after the program's inception. Approximately 84% of funds are unobligated, and many states involved in the lawsuit have not utilized even a third of their allocations. Specifically, California and Washington have used only 1% of their designated funds.
The USDOT continues its review process with no new obligations allowed under NEVI during this period; however, reimbursement for existing commitments will proceed. The Federal Highway Administration aims to streamline guidance in line with priorities set by the Trump administration focused on safety, efficiency, and innovation.
