States sue Trump over EV charger funds

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and a coalition of 16 states have sued the Trump administration, seeking the release of billions of dollars in federal funds designated for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. The lawsuit challenges the administration’s move to suspend disbursements after President Trump issued an executive order on his first day in office directing agencies to halt funds tied to what he described as “Green New Deal”–related programs. State lawyers contend the pause unlawfully blocks money that Congress approved to build and repair EV chargers along highways and in underserved communities, undermining efforts to cut emissions, expand clean transportation and protect jobs tied to the green transition.

California says the suspension jeopardizes projects already in development or under contract, creating uncertainty for local governments, utilities and private firms preparing to install charging stations. Officials argue the funding is essential to meet state climate targets and support accelerating EV adoption, and they accuse the administration of politicizing infrastructure dollars. The suit asks a federal court to order the restoration of funds and prevent further interruptions that could delay nationwide investment plans.

The administration defends its decision as a lawful review to ensure spending aligns with federal priorities and rules, arguing the pause is necessary to reassess whether EV incentives distort markets or disadvantage traditional energy sectors. Officials have signaled a broader policy shift away from measures that preferentially support electric vehicles, including rollbacks of emissions standards and subsidies enacted under prior administrations.

Legal analysts say the litigation could set significant precedents for federal–state relations and the durability of climate and transportation policies when executive priorities change. California’s legal action continues a pattern of state challenges to Republican administrations over environmental regulation; courts frequently have become the venue for resolving such disputes. Other states and environmental organizations are watching closely and may join the challenge, which could determine not only the fate of the EV charging program but also the extent to which states can pursue aggressive climate measures independent of shifting federal direction.