WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy recently announced revised guidance for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, aimed at cutting regulatory hurdles and giving states greater flexibility in deploying federally funded EV charging stations. The updated direction, issued as Interim Final Guidance, takes effect immediately while the Federal Highway Administration seeks public comment.
Duffy said the changes are designed to correct what he described as a failed rollout under the previous administration, noting that 84 percent of funds allocated to the program remained unobligated earlier this year. “The Biden-Buttigieg Administration failed to deliver EV chargers despite their promises,” he stated, adding that the revised rules are intended to ensure projects are completed efficiently.
The new guidance narrows state plan requirements to statutory and regulatory essentials, simplifies approvals, and allows states to set more flexible distances between charging stations along designated corridors. It also eases restrictions on grid integration, renewable energy use, and community consultation, while eliminating mandates related to consumer protections, emergency planning, and resilience considerations.
The revisions rescind language tied to broader federal equity and labor directives, including Justice40 targets and requirements for engaging underserved or disadvantaged communities. They also roll back mandates for emergency preparedness and standards for labor and small business participation.
Under the new framework, states must submit updated EV Infrastructure Deployment Plans within 30 days. The changes align with Executive Order 14154, “Unleashing American Energy,” and Secretary Duffy’s January memorandum directing agencies to remove mandates not explicitly authorized by statute.
The Transportation Department framed the overhaul as part of a broader push to accelerate project delivery, reduce waste, and ensure federal dollars translate into visible infrastructure, even as debate continues over the role of government subsidies in advancing electric vehicle adoption.
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