Richmond, VA – Governor Glenn Younkin vetoed yesterday the bipartisan Rural Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program and Fund, a measure supported by a diverse group of business, tourism, and clean energy stakeholders. CCAN Action Fund expresses deep disappointment as this veto undermines efforts to support rural communities across Virginia. Without this program, rural economies reliant on tourism are left vulnerable as more Americans drive electric and rural Virginians will continue to face barriers to accessing lifetime savings associated with EV ownership, estimated to be up to $12,000 over the lifetime of the vehicle.

The Rural EV Program was designed to complement federal investments in EV infrastructure by prioritizing underserved rural and low-income areas that lack private investment. With U.S. EV sales projected to increase by 36% in 2025, and major automakers transitioning rapidly to electric models, public charging stations are essential for ensuring that rural areas and businesses remain accessible. After numerous years of bipartisan legislative support, the Program was allocated funding by a bipartisan group of budget conferees in 2025. 

CCAN Action Fund’s Virginia Director Victoria Higgins released the following statement:

“Governor Younkin’s veto is a short-sighted decision that will harm Virginia’s rural communities. From Shenandoah National Park to the Blue Ridge Valley, millions of visitors travel to Virginia’s iconic destinations each year –and contribute significantly to our state and local economies. Without adequate EV charging infrastructure, these visitors will choose other states better equipped for the future of transportation.”

The Virginia League of Conservation Voters’ Director of Advocacy and Campaigns, Blair St. Ledger-Olson, added: 

“Governor Youngkin just hit the brakes on a bipartisan effort to expand Virginia’s network of electric vehicle chargers and lift up rural economies. Without investment in charging infrastructure across the Commonwealth, it will remain difficult for EV drivers to reach remote, rural parts of the state that depend on tourism dollars. Instead, these communities are being left behind by a Governor asleep at the wheel. They deserve better.”

Virginia Conservation Network’s Land Use & Transportation Policy Manager, Fatima Kamara, shared:

“Rural communities are losing out on electric vehicle charging stations and the local economic benefits they bring. With trust in a robust EV charging network, rural Virginians could save thousands of dollars in maintenance by switching to electric and increase tourism revenue from travelers visiting our beautiful parks and scenic overlooks. The General Assembly has passed this bill twice to support rural Virginians and their local economy, and it’s time for the Governor to do the same.” 

Advanced Energy United’s Legislative Director, Jim Purekal, stated:

“We’re disappointed with Governor Youngkin’s veto. This represents a real loss for rural Virginia. This bill would have allowed rural Virginia communities and families to enjoy the benefits of EV technology and the free flow of commerce across the state.”

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Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) Action Fund is dedicated to driving change in public policies at the local, state, and national levels to address the climate crisis. Through voter education, lobbying, and participation in the electoral process, we seek to advance our country’s leadership in the global movement toward clean energy solutions — focusing our efforts primarily in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. We know that a vibrant democracy is central to our success so we work to defend democratic integrity wherever we can.