The Trump administration pushed policies favoring gas-powered vehicle sales while scaling back EV incentives for automakers and consumers, reshaping the U.S. auto market.
In a landmark decision with major implications for the future of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the United States, a federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration acted unlawfully when it suspended a key federal program designed to expand EV charging stations across the country.
The case centers on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, a $5 billion initiative created under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021 to support the nationwide buildout of EV charging stations. This program was intended to accelerate EV adoption by ensuring reliable charging networks along highways and in urban and rural areas alike.
Judge’s Ruling: Unlawful Suspension
On January 23, 2026, U.S. District Judge Tana Lin in Seattle ruled that the Trump administration’s decision to halt funding for the NEVI program was contrary to federal law. The ruling came as a result of a lawsuit brought by 20 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia, who argued that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) illegally withheld funds that Congress had authorized for EV infrastructure.
Judge Lin found that the Transportation Department and its agencies had “pulled the NEVI Program’s plug from the socket” without following required administrative procedures. She held that the IIJA did not authorize any pause, even temporary, in the release of funds for the program, meaning the suspension violated federal administrative law.
Her order permanently prohibits the DOT and the Federal Highway Administration from withholding NEVI funds or cancelling states’ approved implementation plans — ensuring that states can continue building out charging networks under the original federal funding.
What This Means for EV Infrastructure
The ruling is being hailed by environmental advocates and state officials as a major win for clean energy and the rule of law. By blocking the administration from cutting off or rescinding previously approved funds, the decision protects billions in federal support for EV charging projects.
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State attorneys general leading the lawsuit emphasized that EV charging infrastructure is essential for achieving broader clean-energy goals and supporting the transition away from fossil fuels. Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown said widespread charging networks are critical to helping residents embrace electric vehicles.
Proponents argue that a strong public charging network will help reduce range anxiety, encourage EV adoption, and support economic growth in sectors tied to the clean-energy transition.
Administration’s Actions and Response
Shortly after President Trump’s inauguration, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy directed the DOT to suspend the NEVI Formula Program. This suspension stopped the release of funds to states that had developed plans to build EV chargers under the program. Critics noted that this move was part of a broader shift by the administration to favor policies supporting gas-powered vehicles and reduce EV incentives for automakers and consumers.
The Trump administration had characterized the pause as temporary and argued that it was reviewing EV initiatives as part of broader transportation priorities. However, the court concluded that such a pause was not contemplated by the IIJA and therefore not legally permissible.
At the time of the ruling, the Department of Transportation had not immediately responded with a public comment.
Political and Legislative Context
The decision comes amid ongoing political debate in Washington over the future of federal support for EV infrastructure. The U.S. Senate was scheduled to consider legislation that would redeploy nearly $879 million earmarked for the EV charging network toward other infrastructure priorities — a sign that funding decisions remain contested in Congress.
Supporters of the NEVI program argue that redirecting EV infrastructure funds undermines both economic and environmental goals. Opponents maintain that federal funds should be flexible to address a broader range of infrastructure needs.
Conclusion: A Crucial Victory for EV Growth
The federal judge’s ruling marks a significant legal and policy victory in the fight to expand EV charging infrastructure in the U.S. By upholding congressional intent and protecting billions in funding, the decision reinforces the role of federal law in shaping the country’s transition to cleaner transportation. It also sends a clear message about the limits of executive power in altering program implementation without proper statutory authority.
Whether the Trump administration will appeal the decision, or how Congress will adjust its infrastructure priorities, remain key questions as the U.S. continues to grapple with climate, energy, and transportation policy in the years ahead.
