CFI: Targeted funding for local innovation
Unlike NEVI, the CFI program is a competitive grant initiative. Eligible entities—such as states, local governments, and metropolitan planning organizations—apply for funding in multiple rounds. By early 2024, $623 million had been awarded to 47 projects across 22 states and Puerto Rico, supporting the construction of 7,500 charging ports. While participation varies by state, the program ensures diverse applicants can pursue funding to meet local needs.
Other programs at risk
Trump’s executive order also puts other U.S. Department of Transportation programs at risk, such as the Carbon Reduction Program, which supports projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and the PROTECT Program, which funds climate resilience in transportation infrastructure. These programs, like NEVI, are essential to modernizing America’s transportation system, addressing climate change, and enhancing energy security.
Legal and practical safeguards against rollbacks
Reversing progress on these programs isn’t just politically unpopular—it’s legally difficult. The NEVI program ties disbursements to state-approved plans, and funds already committed through contracts or grants are bound by legal agreements. These safeguards make it nearly impossible to claw back money already allocated, except in cases of misuse or noncompliance. (And there has been no evidence of any misuse.)
Even for funds not yet obligated, the structure of infrastructure law ensures stability. NEVI’s formula funding mechanism gives states flexibility to advance their projects, while any attempt to alter the program’s framework would likely face legal challenges.
The impact of Trump’s pause
Trump’s executive order introduces uncertainty but cannot erase the substantial progress already made. The NEVI and CFI programs are critical to building the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicle adoption, a trend that reflects consumer choice rather than government mandates. Americans are buying EVs, and they need reliable places to charge them. These investments are creating jobs, improving air quality, and bolstering energy security.
The bottom line
Trump’s plan to pause federal EV infrastructure funding is not as simple as it sounds. Every state has already engaged with the NEVI program, and the foundation for a nationwide charging network is underway. The legal and practical safeguards built into these programs ensure that they will continue to deliver results, despite political headwinds.
Americans overwhelmingly support these investments, which reflect the choices they’ve already made. Political attempts to pause or claw back funds may slow progress, but it won’t stop the transition to cleaner, more reliable transportation for all.
