Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SJR38

Introduced
7/26/23  
Refer
7/26/23  
Engrossed
11/13/23  
Enrolled
1/18/24  

Caption

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Highway Administration relating to "Waiver of Buy America Requirements for Electric Vehicle Chargers".

Impact

The passage of SJR38 would have implications for both the federal funding of electric vehicle infrastructure and the broader electric vehicle market. By maintaining strict Buy America requirements, Congress aims to support the U.S. manufacturing sector, particularly in the face of increasing demand for electric vehicle infrastructure. The resolution signals a commitment to ensuring that U.S. taxpayer dollars are used to support domestic industry rather than foreign suppliers, potentially affecting the speed and manner in which electric vehicle chargers are deployed in the country.

Summary

SJR38 is a joint resolution that expresses congressional disapproval of a specific rule submitted by the Federal Highway Administration concerning the waiver of Buy America requirements for electric vehicle chargers. The resolution effectively nullifies the federal rule, which would have allowed federal funding to be used for electric vehicle chargers that do not comply with domestic sourcing requirements. By disapproving this rule, Congress intends to uphold domestic production standards and ensure that public funds are used to support American manufacturers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR38 appears to be largely supportive among those advocating for domestic manufacturing and job creation. Proponents argue that the measure reinforces the importance of supporting American-made products, thereby fostering economic growth and job security within the manufacturing sector. However, there are concerns regarding the potential delay in the rollout of electric vehicle infrastructure, which may hinder the transition to electric vehicles, especially as the demand for charging stations increases.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding SJR38 is the balancing act between promoting domestic manufacturing and ensuring the rapid deployment of necessary infrastructure for electric vehicles. Opponents of the disapproval argue that strict adherence to Buy America requirements could slow down the installation of vital infrastructure and lead to missed opportunities in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. This debate highlights the tension between protecting American jobs and accelerating the transition to clean energy solutions.

Companion Bills

US HR947

Related Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 788) to limit donations made pursuant to settlement agreements to which the United States is a party, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 98) providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the National Labor Relations Board relating to "Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status''; and providing for consideration of the joint resolution (S.J. Res. 38) providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Highway Administration relating to "Waiver of Buy America Requirements for Electric Vehicle Chargers''.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.