The Trump administration on Monday simplified the requirements for states to build electric vehicle charging stations, earning a surprising thumbs-up from some EV supporters.
The changes also make it possible that more than $2 billion of federal funds in the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program could start flowing to projects next month, after Trump froze the projects for a half-year.
The new guidance from the Federal Highway Administration swept away Biden-era dictates that stations be built at certain intervals along highways, and removed goals both big, like uplifting disadvantaged communities, and small, like requiring plans for snow removal.
In a statement, Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who oversees FHWA, said the move “slashes red tape and makes it easier for states to efficiently build out this infrastructure. While I don’t agree with subsidizing green energy, we will respect Congress’ will and make sure this program uses federal resources efficiently.”
