California Attorney General Rob Bonta joined a coalition of 20 attorneys general and the state of Kentucky in sending a comment letter to the Federal Highway Administration on Mar. 16, opposing a proposal that would restrict federal funding for electric vehicle charging equipment. The proposed changes would modify “Buy America” requirements, effectively prohibiting the use of federal funds for chargers containing any foreign-made components or materials.
The issue is significant because many components needed for electric vehicle chargers are not manufactured in the United States, making it difficult or impossible for manufacturers to comply with the proposed rules. This could halt deployment of federally funded charging infrastructure and impact American manufacturing jobs.
Bonta said, “This proposal is the latest attempt by the Trump Administration to halt electric vehicle charging deployment — this time, by imposing an unachievable standard. Not only does the proposal undermine the intent of Buy America requirements, but it hinders the job growth and investment in American manufacturing that those requirements were designed to create.” He added that if implemented, “this change will create regulatory uncertainty for American manufacturers, which will cause supply chain disruptions, increase costs, and cede market share to international competitors. I urge the administration to withdraw this proposal immediately.”
According to Bonta and his colleagues, current law considers an electric vehicle charger produced in the U.S. if final assembly occurs domestically and at least 55% of its components are sourced from within the country. The new requirement would raise this threshold to 100%, which no charger currently on the market can meet. In California alone, about $460 million intended for state agencies and localities could be at risk if these changes take effect.
The coalition’s letter argues that FHWA’s proposal is illegal because it attempts to increase Buy America requirements beyond what Congress has set using a waiver process not intended for such changes. They also say it is arbitrary since it lacks adequate explanation or connection to supporting American manufacturers and fails to consider alternatives like phasing in stricter standards over time.
Bonta leads the California Attorney General’s office according to the official website, which serves as California’s chief law enforcement authority focused on enforcing state laws and advancing civil rights, consumer protection, economic security, and environmental justice initiatives according to the official website. The office operates statewide as part of California’s executive branch according to the official website.
The broader implications include potential delays or halts in expanding electric vehicle infrastructure nationwide if these requirements are finalized. The coalition urges reconsideration so that investments in clean transportation can continue without disruption.
