Us Congress House Bill HB7601

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/8/24

Caption

Bullets Not Batteries Act

Impact

The enactment of HB 7601 would significantly alter the landscape of federal involvement in the electric vehicle sector. By disallowing resources under the Defense Production Act to be allocated toward electric vehicle advancements, the bill potentially sets back growth in sustainable transportation initiatives. This prohibition could hinder the development of necessary infrastructure, thereby affecting the transition to greener mobility options across the nation. The legislation underscores a shift in federal policy that may prioritize traditional energy sources over innovative clean technology.

Summary

House Bill 7601, also known as the ‘Bullets Not Batteries Act,’ aims to amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 by explicitly prohibiting the use of the Act's authorities for the production and development of electric vehicles and related technologies. The bill specifically targets the funding and support related to electric vehicles, battery manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and the mining of critical minerals necessary for these technologies. The primary intention behind this legislative proposal is to curb federal support for electric vehicle initiatives.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns from environmental groups and industries advocating for electric vehicles. Critics argue that HB 7601 represents a regression in environmental policy and climate action efforts, potentially jeopardizing progress toward reducing carbon emissions. Supporters of the bill may contend that fostering traditional energy resources is crucial for national security, echoing a belief that reliance on electric vehicles could pose strategic vulnerabilities in an increasingly polarized global energy landscape.