California, along with 16 other states, has filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration for allegedly withholding $5 billion in infrastructure funds designated for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Experts warn that halting government-funded EV stations could lead to costs amounting to $1 billion due to the negative implications for EV adoption and infrastructure.

The rollout of the EV charging program, which aims to establish infrastructure along highways, has faced delays due to contracting issues and permitting challenges.

As a result of the funding being withheld, Washington has halted ongoing electric vehicle infrastructure projects and is unable to award contracts for previously approved work.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser stated that the state risks losing tens of millions in funding crucial for expanding EV infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

While some states have received reimbursements for their EV projects, others have paused their plans due to the funding stoppage, leading to delays in charger installations.

Wisconsin's Governor Tony Evers highlighted bipartisan legislation aimed at securing nearly $80 million for developing EV charging stations, which is now at risk due to the funding freeze.

California's Attorney General Rob Bonta criticized the administration's actions, calling them 'short-sighted' and underscoring the critical need for these funds to support the future of transportation.

The state requires approximately one million additional public charging stations by 2030 to meet the increasing demand for electric vehicles, despite recently surpassing the number of EV charging ports compared to gasoline nozzles.

The NEVI program, established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, was designed to create a national EV charging network and promote accessibility to electric vehicle ownership.

Despite receiving $3.3 billion in awarded funds over the past four fiscal years, many coalition members, including California and Washington, have not yet built any EV chargers.

California's strategy includes enhancing public transit and clean fuel production, aiming to reduce emissions and prevent gasoline price spikes, while emphasizing the importance of federal support for EV infrastructure.