Musk-Led Federal Cuts Target Auto Safety Agency and EV Chargers

The Department of Government Efficiency reduces oversight of autonomous vehicles and halts EV charger operations at federal buildings, raising concerns over safety and sustainability.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) faces a 10% budget cut, including a nearly 50% reduction in its team overseeing autonomous vehicle safety, which directly affects Tesla and other companies.
The cuts are part of broader reductions led by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, aimed at streamlining federal agencies but criticized for potential conflicts of interest.
Employees and safety advocates warn that the reductions will hinder the government's ability to regulate and understand new autonomous driving technologies, which have been linked to multiple safety investigations.
Orders to shut down electric vehicle chargers at federal buildings, including the Denver Federal Center, may slow the EV transition despite Musk's past advocacy for electric vehicles.
Democratic lawmakers have demanded explanations from the Transportation Department, citing concerns over the implications for public safety and the federal workforce.