The Trump administration has released new guidelines for distributing $5 billion in federal funding for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, ending months of delays tied to a controversial funding freeze.
The freeze, part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, prompted a coalition of states to sue, arguing it was one of several attempts by the administration to block funds approved by Congress at the start of Donald Trump’s second term. In June, a federal judge sided with the states, issuing an injunction that forced the administration to move forward.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, a former MTV personality, criticized states for slow spending, noting that by May, 84% of the funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law remained unspent, with only a handful of chargers installed. The DOT claimed the delay was due to a “review process” to align NEVI with the administration’s priorities.
The updated guidance significantly streamlines project approvals by removing previous requirements such as consumer protections, emergency evacuation planning, environmental siting considerations, and mandates to place chargers in rural, underserved, or disadvantaged areas. It also eliminates provisions promoting labor standards, safety training, and opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses.
