Congressman John R. Moolenaar | Rep. John R. Moolenaar Official U.S House Headshot
Congressman John R. Moolenaar | Rep. John R. Moolenaar Official U.S House Headshot
Congressman John Moolenaar has voted in favor of legislation that aims to prevent the Biden administration from eliminating Buy America requirements for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations purchased with U.S. taxpayer funds. The move comes as part of Moolenaar's efforts to oppose what he perceives as burdensome and unworkable EV policies put forth by the Biden administration.
Moolenaar expressed his reasons for supporting the legislation, stating, "This legislation will reduce our reliance on the CCP, spur American innovation, and protect the tax dollars of hardworking Michigan families." He further emphasized the potential dangers of allowing Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-affiliated companies to receive tax dollars in exchange for EV chargers, arguing that it would only serve to increase the country's dependence on China.
The legislation, known as S. J. Res. 38, was passed by a bipartisan vote of 209 to 198 in the House of Representatives. It had previously received bipartisan support in the Senate, with a vote of 50 to 48. The text of the legislation can be accessed here.
The Biden administration had previously announced its ambitious goal of having two-thirds of all new cars sold in the United States be EVs by 2032. As part of this plan, the Federal Highway Administration submitted a rule on February 21, 2023, seeking to waive Buy America requirements for EV chargers. If implemented, this rule would allow tax dollars to be utilized for purchasing EV chargers from CCP-affiliated companies.
Moolenaar's vote aligns with a bipartisan majority in Congress, which calls for the legislation to be signed by President Biden. The congressman urges the administration to heed the concerns raised by Congress and take action accordingly.
The legislation is seen as a way to stimulate American innovation and reduce reliance on China while safeguarding the tax dollars of hardworking Michigan families. By blocking the Biden administration's regulation, Moolenaar and his supporters aim to prioritize domestic production and protect national interests.
As the bill progresses, its potential impact on the EV industry and the broader U.S.-China relationship remains to be seen.
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