Senate Rejects Waiver on 'Buy America' Requirements for EV Chargers, Biden Threatens Veto

Waiver aims to expedite installation of EV chargers and protect domestic manufacturing amid global supply strain; Republicans claim move will benefit Chinese companies.

• The Senate, in a 50-48 vote, vetoed President Biden’s waiver of 'Buy America' prerequisites for government-subsidized electric vehicle (EV) chargers, with some Democrats siding with Republicans.
• The veto aims to protect domestic manufacturing, although opponents argue it might principally serve Chinese businesses since global demand is straining the supply chain, thus challenging quick construction of new chargers.
• The veto goes against the White House's intent to speed up EV charger acquisition and installation process, thereby indirectly hurting domestic manufacturing and American jobs, according to the administration.
• The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) had plans to suspend certain 'Buy America' requirements until July 2024 to allow immediate advancement of EV charger acquisition and setup.
• The vetoed waiver was a part of Biden's broader goal to build a network of EV chargers and drive the sales of EVs, in line with his climate change mitigation plan.

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