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Environmental Justice Groups, INDOT Work to Address Equity Concerns Over EV Chargers

Summary

Environmental justice advocates and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) are collaborating to address equity concerns surrounding an electric vehicle (EV) charging program. The federal program intends to establish charging stations along interstates and major highways to promote EV adoption. At least 40 percent of the program's benefits should benefit disadvantaged communities; however, the Biden administration's decision not to specify race requirements resulted in some predominantly White, rural areas being identified as disadvantaged communities in Indiana. Environmental justice advocates fear this could exclude Black and Brown communities living along state highways and suffering from pollution. They also aim to ensure Black-owned businesses have opportunities to benefit from the program. INDOT is seeking input from environmental justice advocates to set benchmarks ensuring equitable access to EV chargers for disadvantaged communities.

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