$48.6M EPA EV Grant at Risk – Local News
TL/DR –
The $48.6 million U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant for the CNMI’s Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program is likely to be affected by the Trump administration’s funding freeze order. The grant, announced in December 2024, aimed to replace internal combustion engine vehicles with zero-emission alternatives. Grant Management Administrator Epi Cabrera stated that he expects funds to be repurposed for border protection, infrastructure, and national security, but hopes that some funds can be isolated for the CNMI’s ongoing needs such as economy, health, education, and energy.
CNMI’s $48.6M EPA Grant Likely Impacted by Trump Administration’s Funding Freeze
The $48.6 million Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant for the CNMI’s Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program faces a likely impact due to the Trump administration’s funding freeze order, according to the Office of Grants Management and State Clearinghouse Administrator, Epi Cabrera.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios mentioned his administration is in talks with the U.S. EPA concerning this issue. The grant was unveiled in December 2024, marking a significant step in the CNMI’s move towards cleaner transport, with its aim to replace traditional vehicles with zero-emission alternatives.
Administrator Cabrera noted that the grant’s funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. He forewarned of a high probability of the funds being redirected or repurposed by the Trump administration.
Several CNMI agencies impacted by this are striving to assess the potential loss’ impact on payroll and provision of community services. Key members of the CNMI Energy Task Force are scheduled to meet U.S. officials in Washington, D.C., seeking critical guidance on these paused energy funds.
In an emergency cabinet meeting, Cabrera shared they discussed potential future steps and anticipated more actions from the Trump administration. Some repurposed federal funds, Cabrera hopes, could be used to address the CNMI’s ongoing needs, including the economy, health, education, and energy sectors.
Gov. Palacios, in a recent press conference, acknowledged that while some programs have advanced well, others lagged. He emphasized the need for underperforming programs to improve, as they risk losing federal funds during reviews. The governor believes this situation is a wake-up call for all states and territories with a new administration.
He also addressed concerns about federally funded programs stating that CNMI’s Medicaid and Nutrition Assistance Program remains unaffected by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget’s memorandum to pause agency grants.
Meanwhile, Reuters reported that a U.S. judge temporarily blocked part of President Trump’s directive to pause federal grants, providing relief to advocacy groups arguing it would disrupt programs serving millions of Americans. Despite this, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the order remains in full effect, focusing on eradicating waste, fraud, and abuse.
—
Read More US Economic News