Wisconsin Saves $62M for Electric Vehicle Charging Network

Wisconsin just won a major court battle that secures tens of millions of dollars for clean transportation and local jobs. A federal judge ruled last week that the state can move forward with its electric vehicle charging network, protecting over $62 million in congressionally approved funding.

The money comes from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which awarded Wisconsin $78 million total to build fast-charging stations statewide. When the Trump administration tried to block the funding earlier this year, Attorney General Josh Kaul joined a multi-state coalition to fight back in court.

The judge's summary judgment concluded the administration broke the law by withholding the funds. "This ruling safeguards tens of millions of dollars for projects in Wisconsin," Kaul said in a statement Thursday.

The legal win means work can continue without interruption. Wisconsin already awarded $14 million to 26 charging projects in November 2025, plus another $22.4 million for more than 50 projects in 2024.

An earlier court ruling last summer allowed the state to keep distributing money while the case proceeded. That temporary relief is rarely granted, but judges saw clear evidence of legal violations and potential harm to Wisconsin.

The Ripple Effect

Beyond the dollar amounts, this funding creates tangible benefits for communities across Wisconsin. New charging stations mean more people can confidently switch to electric vehicles, knowing they can travel the state without running out of power.

The projects also generate construction jobs and ongoing maintenance work in towns and cities statewide. Plus, more electric vehicles on the road means cleaner air for everyone, especially children and people with respiratory conditions.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation continues processing applications and awarding grants as planned. Nothing has changed at the agency level since November, a spokesperson confirmed.

While the Trump administration could still appeal, Kaul says the law clearly supports Wisconsin's position. "Their actions here were clearly unlawful," he explained. The executive branch must faithfully execute laws passed by Congress, not unilaterally withhold approved funding.

If federal officials disagree with the program, they would need to work with Congress to change the law through proper legislative channels. A bill to repeal the EV charging program has stalled in both the House and Senate since last February with no action.

For now, Wisconsin's clean energy future looks brighter, and dozens of communities will soon see new charging infrastructure that makes electric vehicles practical for more families.